Gee up, horse and carts rule

Move over cars and buses because it is that time of year again for an altogether more traditional transport to rule the roost on the streets of Saddleworth.

Up to 20 horse and carts, some coming from as far as Sheffield and Rotherham, will be bustling along village roads on Sunday to raise money for Oldham Mountain Rescue.

Les Leech, who lives in Dobcross, came up with the idea after taking part in the cart drive at Beverley in Yorkshire, and decided to emulate its success in Saddleworth.

He said: “Last year’s event was really successful, people turned up to see the horses and everybody enjoyed the day.

“People should come and see us, wave us off and support us — we want to raise even more money this year.”

The enthusiasts will be praying for fine weather as they embark on the 12- mile route from midday after fuelling up with breakfast at the Old Bell, Delph.

They will then gallop through the village and up to Denshaw, stopping off along the way at local pubs to fill their collection buckets and make time for lunch at the Golden Fleece.

The colourful procession of traps and carts joined forces for the first time in March last year and Les hopes that it can establish itself as a staple event in the summer calendar.

He said: “We want to get people in the traditional dress and take people back to the 1900s when horse and carts were the mode of transport.”

See the horses and carts gather at the Old Bell at 10am before setting off at noon.