OAP wins England call-up

Sprightly Mike Mann, from Finchfield in Wolverhampton, has received a call-up to the England Over 70s squad for an international tournament in Germany next month.

The former Wolverhampton Grammar School pupil will travel to Hanover to pull on the three lions jersey against Italy, Germany and Holland following his successful trial match.

His wife Ange is also proving that hockey is not only a domain for the young. The Express & Star told recently how she still plays for Tettenhall Ladies Fourth Team despite her 70 years.

Fittingly, the pair met during a lunch break at a match and both maintain the sport has kept them young of mind and body.

"It is every small boy's ambition to represent your country and it's a dream come true for me at my age," said Mike, who is president of Old Wulfrunians Hockey Club.

"This call-up is beyond my wildest dreams and I'm thrilled - I imagine it will be a huge buzz to pull on the England jersey. You don't expect this sort of thing at my age and it should be a great experience. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

The grandfather-of-seven refused to accept his call-up was recognition for his talent. Instead he modestly pointed to the fact not many 73-year-olds still played hockey.

"To be honest I think I'm lucky to be involved. After all, there are not too many guys in their 70s still playing. But having said that I was impressed with the standard at the trial match. The legs may go but the skill remains."

Mike, a former civil engineer, has turned out for Old Wulfrunians since the club's formation in 1953 and has no plans to consign his stick to the attic in the foreseeable future.