Some eighty players, sponsors and guests recently converged on Centre Algarve, Moncarapacho, to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Walking Football in Portugal.
The sport now attracts thousand of players, many of whom travel from Northern Europe and Scandinavia to enjoy the camaraderie of clubs in the Algarve.
An added attraction at the Gala Dinner was an illuminating and humorous talk by Alan Hudson, the former Chelsea, Stoke City, Arsenal and England international. Fifty years ago Alan made his debut for England at Wembley, where World Champions West Germany and the incomparable Franz Beckenbauer were the opponents.
Centre Algarve, with the inquisitive meerkats keeping a watchful eye on proceedings, welcomed guests with a glass of champagne as they were serenaded by saxophonist Steve Bland. John Knight welcomed everyone including Chris Moore of Blevins Franks who had generously supported the Anniversary Dinner.
Master of Ceremonies George Allen then called on Chris Wright, founder and life president of East Algarve Walking Football, to say a few words before making a number of presentations. Inaugural members Gordon Linford, Brian Caldwell, Oistein Lovell and Jeff Denman received commemorative bottles of wine whilst Tanya Fox, who managed an EAWF team when they played at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Lisbon, was also honoured.
Stalwart Mike Hawe and his wife Julie were presented with a commemorative bottle of wine in recognition of their 18th wedding anniversary.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Alan Hudson who reminisced about those halcyon days when Chelsea beat Real Madrid in the UEFA Cup Winners Cup Final and their victory in the FA Cup Final against Leeds United. Tales of life in the 70s with the likes of George Best, Bobby Moore, Pele and Bobby Charlton had many of those present reliving their younger days as they now re-engage with their youth through walking football.
A raffle and auction raised €550 for Centre Algarve to help continue their work for young people with special needs.
Before the dancing started Centre Algarve presented Chris Wright, a trustee of the centre, and his wife Christine with engraved glassware in appreciation of their support over many years.
