MORE than 40 teams from all over Devon took part in the Ability Counts Leagues at Tavistock Community Football Club last weekend.

In excess of 600 people attended the event for a successful day of football which hosted ten referees and players of all abilities, with Tavistock Specials fielding three teams. Teams from locations such as Barnstaple, Exeter, Torquay, Bideford, Braunton, Plymouth and all over the South Hams flocked to Tavistock to compete against one another.

The Ability Counts Leagues are for players with a disability who want to play football. The leagues have youth, mens and ladies football matches which cater for all levels of ability. Fixtures are held approximately once every six weeks during the season, with teams from across the county playing several matches during the day at each event. Players comprise different teams based on their ability.

Committee member and reserve welfare officer Allen Lewis said: ‘It was a complete inspiration to see so many people with disabilities playing so well, getting stuck in and having such a brilliant time ­— they absolutely love it. It was great seeing the players of all abilities enjoy their day; those with different conditions are all accommodated for. After the past two years it’s really good to be participating in big sporting events again and to have spectators seeing how happy it makes everyone to get together and spend time doing something they love with friends and teammates.’

‘The success of Sunday’s event is also testament to our club here in Tavistock which is run so well by all those involved.’

Upcoming events in the league will take place in Newton Abbot, Cullompton and Braunton.