A walking football match for over-50s was abandoned after just two minutes with play descending into a foul-tempered scuffle.

Billed as a genteel pastime for retirees of the beautiful game, the clash between Canterbury and rivals Herne Bay proved anything but.

It is reported that tempers flared within seconds of kick-off with opposing teams squaring up to one another.

Minutes later emotions boiled over as a player was felled by a crunching tackle.

According to a light-hearted match report, the referee at first joined the melee before thinking twice and blowing his whistle.

Players were then left to argue among themselves as the ref simply left the pitch.

"No bodily harm was incurred in the game and the evening ended with both teams enjoying a chat, a beer and some grub, albeit in separate pubs..." - match report

The report, which appeared on the Canterbury team’s website, describes how the teams settled on playing a friendly game instead, with Herne Bay running out 3-2 winners.

According to the report: “No bodily harm was incurred in the game and the evening ended with both teams enjoying a chat, a beer and some grub, albeit in separate pubs.”

It dismisses the incident as a “couple of competitive lads having a go at each other”.

“It was all a storm in a tea cup really,” says the unnamed writer. “Herne Bay have some excellent players and play neat football, and I’m sure this will all be ironed out.”

Ron Boddy, director of Herne Bay FC and organiser of the walking football team, agreed.

“We actually organised a friendly after the ref had gone and that went off without a problem,” said Mr Boddy.

“You have to remember that these are competitive games and people will play competitively.

“At the end of the day we all shake hands.”

Walking football carries a ban on running, which Mr Boddy says can lead to frustration among players.

Aimed at over-50s, the game attracts retirees and older professionals keen to remain active.

Players among the Herne Bay and Canterbury line-ups range from 50 to 68, though the sport is known to have participants in their 80s.