Explore local beauty spots, public urged

OLDHAMERS will be encouraged to explore the natural beauty on their doorstep with a series of fun events scheduled for the South Pennine walk and ride festival.

Featuring over 80 events, the 16-day festival, which begins on September 13, has something for everyone, from gentle one or two-mile nature trails to a marathon 47-mile mountain bike ride.

In May this year, there was a plea for local groups to suggest events for this year’s festival and they have come up trumps.

Festival organiser John Manning said: “We have had fantastic co-operation from local walking and cycling groups, including people like the Cyclists’ Touring Club and the Peak and Northern Footpath Society.

“It’s given us a wonderfully varied and interesting programme of events throughout the festival.”

The event is organised by Pennine Prospects, the rural regeneration partnership company which has been charged with the task of putting the South Pennines on the map. Graham Joyce, development manager of Pennine Prospects, said: “This year’s festival promises to be better than ever, with a varied programme of events covering the best of the South Pennines.

“And with ever-rising fuel costs, we’ve made it easy for people to use our superb public transport network, or to get out on their bikes and enjoy our wonderful countryside.”

Councillor Mohib Uddin, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “I would like to encourage those interested to join in these great activities.”

Programmes for this year’s festival are available from Tourist Information Centres, bus and rail stations, and other local outlets. They can also be accessed online at www.oldham.gov.uk/south-pennine-walking-festival-2008.htm and www.pennineprospects.co.uk

Anyone looking for more information is asked to contact festival organiser John Manning on 01729-822547.