Grassroots sports clubs are struggling across the country, yet local teams remain a lifeline for many people. Gas Safe is committed to supporting its community in Cheshire and is proud to play a part in keeping local sport alive.
Sports clubs offer older people real physical, mental and social benefits. Taking part in a team helps reduce frailty and isolation, both of which are common challenges as people get older. Team sports such as football also offer the chance to build friendships with people who share similar interests, which helps create a strong sense of community and belonging.
Our Directors, Terry and Julie, are both keen sports people. Terry played top flight rugby with Newport and Sale. Julie has competed in national fitness events and appeared as a contestant on the TV programme Gladiators. Both are passionate Manchester City supporters.
This year, Gas Safe is proud to sponsor Crewe FC Corinthians. The team has existed for more than 60 years and has a strong local football heritage. In recent years they faced challenges keeping a grassroots team going, but in August 2025 they joined the Crewe FC umbrella (not affiliated with Crewe Alexandra FC). This move provided the stability they needed and they now compete in the Chester and Wirral Veterans League for players aged 35 and over.
The squad has more than 20 registered players. League fixtures are held every two weeks and friendly matches take place on alternate weekends to help the team stay active and connected.
Why senior sports matter
Senior football leagues and community sports clubs offer a structured way for older adults to stay active and socially connected. The benefits are wide ranging.
Physical health benefits
- Regular activity helps manage weight and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke.
- Strength, flexibility and balance work can reduce the risk of falls.
- Aerobic activity improves cardiovascular health, which supports both life expectancy and quality of life.
Mental and emotional benefits
- Exercise releases endorphins, which helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research also links community sports participation with lower levels of depressive symptoms in older adults.
- Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and supports sharper thinking, memory and slower cognitive decline.
- Learning new skills, achieving goals and being part of a team can raise confidence and create a strong sense of purpose. Sport also offers a healthy break from day to day stress.
Social benefits
- Team sports help people build friendships that are rooted in shared interests.
- The encouragement and camaraderie found in a team can motivate people to stay active long term.
We wish Crewe FC Corinthians every success this season and in the years ahead.
The benefits of being in a team are clear and here at Gas Safe we practice what we preach – find out exactly why teamwork matters in our business.
