FOOTBALLER Jay Adams has become a trailblazer for the women’s game in the Black Country for the second time.

She is working for gender equality in the sport with a groundbreaking new initiative, nearly 50 years after first refusing to accept it is not just a man's game.

Social worker Jay, aged 58, yearned to play football when she was a schoolgirl and began playing at the age of 15, despite being told at school that girls only played netball or hockey.

Two years ago, she joined Hartshill Strollers Walking Football Club in Kingswinford and now – as one of only three women in the club – she is leading the formation of a women’s section.

Jay, who lives in Stourbridge, said: “We are looking for women over 40 who would like to play walking football – probably for the first time – whether socially, for exercise or competitively.

“Playing football has been a big part in my life, it’s great exercise, and I have enjoyed playing in the same teams as the men at Hartshill Strollers. They have been very welcoming."

“In time, the hope is to be able to enter an all-women’s team in leagues, tournaments and other competitions.”

The club is running a free taster session for would-be female players at Summerhill School, Lodge Lane, Kingswinford, Dudley, DY6 9XE, on Sunday, November 28 (11am).

Three of the club’s male members play for different age group England squads (Over 50s, Over 65s and Over 70s), while Tracy Dudwell is a key player with the Over 50s England Women’s set-up.

Andy Norris, chairman of Hartshill Strollers, said: “Over the past seven years, the club has grown amazingly and has made a terrific impact on the sport.

“It is now entering a new era, by launching an all-women’s team.”

For more information contact Jay Adams on 07921 174074.