The weird and the wonderful turn out in Saddleworth

This creative bunch of happy go lucky fundraisers turned rain into sunshine in celebration of Saddleworth’s eighth Unofficial Beer Walk.

The unique event spearheaded by community champions Justin Brown, 50, and his sister Angie, saw more than 200 join an 11-mile trek around country pubs from Greenfield’s satellite centre. 

The dynamic duo, along with friends, dressed as traffic cones. Others turned up as Vikings, international statesmen, Donald Trump, complete with a team in Mexican garb and a wall, and the kiddie’s TV favourite, Baby Shark. 

And nurse Alison Labrey from Dobcross organised a re-enactment to mark her sisters 30th wedding anniversary, by arranging costumes from the 1980s for the couple and. ‘wedding party’ of family and friends. 

Some entrants collected money for specific charities and others, including ‘veterans’ from the original Beer Walk, renewed friendships with walkers from previous memorable treks.

The original Saddleworth Beer Walk was organised by Saddleworth Round Table and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for worthy community causes. However, it had to be scrapped because of problems.

Justin, who owns a kitchen fitting business, said: “We had an excellent turn out and everyone really gets on well with each other. 

“It’s more like a family gathering than a walk,” he declared. “We set out to enjoy themselves.

“This year’s event was a great success — despite the massive downturn weather. We had a lot of support from locals many who, over the years, had taken part themselves.”

Angie, who works at The Hair and Beauty Lounge, Uppermill, added: “Part of the fun is sharing the other amazing costumes people make and wear on the day.”  

Costumes, many homemade, ranged from TV and films shows.  

Later, after their gruelling slog, the walkers celebrated at a disco hosted by DJ Ryan Hussey.

 

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