SEATON Carew Strollers are within walking distance of glory as they take on reigning champions Barnsley's Leggy Mambos in the Walking Football United National Cup.

The Strollers, only formed this year, will battle it out with the Yorkshiremen at the JD Sports Dome in Seaton Carew tomorrow.

Seaton hope to clinch a place in the national final at Birmingham having progressed through the regional zone, beating South Shields Saints both home and away before defeating Newcastle Blue Flames in the quarter-finals to set up the Leggy tie.

The seven-a-side game, played by players aged over 50, differs from regular football by having no running, slide tackles or offsides. It has vastly grown in popularity nationwide.

Former Sunday league player Steve Rich, who was forced to retire at 26 due to a knee injury sustained in a car accident, proved the catalyst as he launched a website to help connect teams across the country.

Seaton Carew, one the first walking teams established in the region in January, are down to the last four from more than 100 teams across the UK.

Strollers coach Graham Button thinks this is exciting times for both the club and the sport on the eve of the big game, and is relishing the challenge against tough opponents.

“They (Leggy Mambos) are the reigning champions of England and are unbeaten in all domestic and national competitions since forming in January 2014,” said Button, who went on his own scouting mission earlier this month to check out the opposition.

“It's fantastic news that the champions of England have agreed to come to the home of the Dome. Walking football is really growing.”

The slower-paced game has attracted the eyes of footballing heroes past and present, as Button took part in a friendly game to promote the sport alongside the likes of Newcastle legend Alan Shearer and Tottenham Hotspur star Harry Kane.

As the Strollers prepare for the big match, Button and the players have asked for fans' support tomorrow.

Kick-off is at 1.30pm at the JD Sports Dome, Seaton Carew, with free entry and amenities available before and after the game.