A FOOTBALL team from Galashiels clocked up the miles on Saturday as they walked a national tournament in Edinburgh.

Galashiels Walking Football were amongst the clubs competing for the Scotland Walking Football Festival trophy at Ainslie Park.

Due to injuries and other commitments, Gala joined forces with Loanhead-based Midlothian.

And they managed to go through all of their seven group games without conceding a goal - winning three and drawing four.

In the semi-finals they faced Hibernian.

And following a goalless match it was the Easter Road side who squeezed through on penalties.

Hibs went on to beat Glasgow Light 2-1 in the final.

Gala player John Hislop told the Border Telegraph: “ It was a great day out and we were unlucky to lose on penalties in the semi-final.

“We play every Monday at the Langlee Centre and are keen to have more people attend. I would recommend walking football to anyone hoping to keep fit and new players can be assured of a warm welcome.” Each player from the 15 teams had to wear a pedometer to record the number of steps taken during the matches.

During the tournament 838,000 steps were taken, 148 players took part, 102 goals were scored, and 56 matches were played.

Age Scotland Chief Executive Brian Sloan said: “The Walking Football Festival has been a fantastic success and it’s great that so many people have come to take part from right across Scotland.

“Walking football is a brilliant way to keep fit in later life and we are delighted by how the sport has taken off.”