Walkers smash record at a stroll

Women limber up before the start of the midnight walk

FUND-RAISERS became night owls as hundreds of women clocked up a half marathon in the early hours to raise thousands.

The 13.1 mile midnight walk in aid of Dr Kershaw’s was a record-breaking success after 235 women burned the midnight oil to take part — topping last year’s entry of 190.

And the boys did their bit to help the nocturnal walkers by getting involved as stewards to guarantee safety, while Oldham Mayor, Councillor Jim McArdle, also supported the event.

The event aims to unite women in support of the Royton Hospice and will have raised tens of thousands of pounds.

Walkers gathered at Oldham Athletic’s training ground and set off at the stroke of midnight with the first one crossing the finish line at 3am.

Appeals manager Brian Hurst said: “It went very well and was a very good evening. We beat last year’s total of participants so it was a record.

“We are still waiting for all the money coming in but if everyone raised £100 each then that would total over £23,000, which is a fantastic amount. And I know a few ladies who have raised over £100.”

He sent his thanks to everyone who took part, as well as the Latics for lending their premises and all the marshals and Rochdale Road Runners for providing security.