FOOTBALLERS running on to the pitch on chilly winter days next season are in for a treat for their feet!

An East Lancashire firm has developed a heated football boot - and believes the technology could be extended to other uses including labourers' wellies!

Blackburn-based orthopaedic footwear specialists S Reed & Co has developed the new boot complete with special miniature batteries.

The aim is to speed up players' warm up times and also reduce the risk of injuries from cold limbs.

And the firm is hopeful the technology it has developed will also be able to be used in wellies for building workers and farm labourers and special shoes for the elderly. The power for the boot comes from three small batteries connected to a microprocesser unit which fits into the heel of the boot. The unit is linked to a specially developed carbon fibre lining which conducts heat and is attached to the inside of the boot.

The microprocessor has a built-in temperature control programme which switches the heat on or off when a pre-set temperature is reached.

"The battery life is sufficient to last the duration of a football match including extra time," said Mr Vause.

The boots have already been successfully tested by players at one premiership club.

The breakthrough came after the firm began looking at ways to provide heated shoes and clothing for people suffering from poor circulation, rheumatism and arthritis.

The firm is currently negotiating with a major sportswear organisation interested in manufacturing the boots. If all goes to plan they could be on sale before the end of the year.

The firm is now working on the production of heated orthopaedic footwear.

"What we have now is something which can be applied to many other medical and comfort- related applications including everyday footwear and children's shoes and clothes," said Mr Vause.

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