The world's attention may have been on Paris these past few weeks, but Congleton also held a sporting event of its own.

Congleton Leisure Centre played host to a Walking Netball tournament, featuring participants from seven areas: Congleton, Macclesfield, Poynton, Holmes Chapel, Middlewich, Alderley Park and Wilmslow, totalling 55 participants.

The tournament was organised by Everybody Leisure.

And in good news for locality, the final was played out between two Congleton teams - it was a close-run thing between Congleton Phoenix Blue and Congleton Phoenix Black, but ultimately the blues picked up the win.

A spokesperson for Everybody Leisure said: "Although these events are a competition with an overall winner, the atmosphere created by bringing people together from all sessions helps build friendships and camaraderie.

"The highlight of the event was witnessing people to come together from across Cheshire East in the spirit of friendship. The sessions are a chance for fun and bringing people together through social sports activity."

(Image - Everybody Leisure)

Christine Stewart, a participant, shared how attending Walking Netball has helped her both physically and mentally.

"I have found walking netball a godsend", she said. "Two and half years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer and during the months of treatment my husband passed away.

"I needed to get back on my feet both physically and mentally. I had never played netball before and I haven't looked back. It gives me exercise, camaraderie and social activity which I needed, although not nearly as much now.

"All the people in our group are so welcoming and friendly and we play for fun enjoying every session. I am a bit tentative at times as I have been in hospital a couple of times and need recovery periods. The great thing is that playing isn't compulsory, you do what you are able to do."

Walking Netball has been designed so that anyone can play it regardless of age or fitness level. To find out more information about Everybody's Walking Netball sessions in Congleton, visit https://everybody.org.uk/locations/congleton/play-sport/walking-netball/.