A GOLDEN Jubilee patient is still enjoy playing the sport he loves - despite undergoing three major heart surgeries.

Jamie Westwood started a walking football group in Scotstoun for younger people, like himself, who may have health problems which leave them unable to run around too much.

The 27-year-old receives care from the Golden Jubilee’s Scottish Advanced Congenital Cardiac Service (SACCS) as he has had his condition since birth.

Jamie was determined his love of football wouldn’t be limited to just watching the game, and decided to get his boots on after hearing about Walking Football Scotland (WFS).

The sport was introduced to promote healthy activity for older people, so Jamie decided to start sessions for people aged 18-50 at the Scotstoun Leisure Centre on Monday evenings.

Jamie said: “I have a lung condition related to my heart problems, which is the reason I started walking football.

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“I love playing football, but unfortunately I’m limited to the physical activity I can do so walking football is perfect for me, more manageable, and I can still enjoy the basis of the game.

“I am aiming to get a league going as there are more and more people coming along each week and the numbers are slowly building.

“It’s a great workout, there’s no contact which reduces injuries and it keeps me fit and healthy and there’s also the social aspect as well.”

Walking football is growing fast across the country and participants are enjoying the mental health and physical health benefits the game brings with it.

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Dr John Sharp, consultant clinical psychologist at the Golden Jubilee, said: “Jamie’s enthusiasm and determination to find ways to continue to be involved in sport is a fantastic inspiration to us all.

“He has shown that everyone, even people living with serious health conditions, can participate in organised sport. There is overwhelming evidence that being physically active is crucial to help us live a healthy and fulfilling life.

“People who do regular physical activity benefit physically and psychologically and this type of exercise is excellent for both young and older people.”