LIFE begins at 40 for FC City of York Cosmos.

The six-a-side football team, now in their 16th year together, are playing in a Football Mundial league for the 40th consecutive season. Manager Rodney Roper and his teammates have not missed a campaign since 1998.

Getting a little longer in the tooth these days, they are not as sharp, or as quick, as in days gone by. But they still manage to put out a full side each and every week.

“It has been a long time since we were pushing for honours but in the spirit of the game we make sure we have a full team of six every week who come rain or shine," said Roper, whose outfit get through two or three campaigns in a calendar year.

"In fact we have been checking our records and the FC City of York Cosmos have only missed four games in 16 years."

Having kept a nucleus of four or five players throughout, Football Mundial chiefs reckon they have played more than 500 matches during their time in the league. They currently play on Tuesdays in the premier league at York Sport Village.

Roper added: "This league has suited us for many years. It is well organised with FA referees, and it is not too serious. While we are still mobile we will try to continue to play for the foreseeable future. We may even get close to 1.000 games together.”

Mark Horn, Football Mundial co-ordinator, said: “We provide a safe, fun environment for teams and players, and FC City of York Cosmos are true legends of this league and also real gentlemen."

For more information about the league, contact Football Mundial on 01937 841440. Anyone interested in getting a team together can also visit the website at www.footballmundial.com or email info@footballmundial.com