We’ll bring new cheer to replace the beer

THE new chairman of Saddleworth Round Table has issued a rallying call after revealing the stark impact on local good causes of the scrapping of the legendary Saddleworth Beer Walk.

Members of the organisation at their annual meeting heard that the last beer walk, two years ago, raised £47,269 for charity.

Over 37 years of colourful events, the Round Table has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds and individual walkers have raised thousands more for personal causes.

The walk was cancelled after being blighted by violence, drunkenness and other problems.

But Ian Eardley, Round Table’s new chairman, has pledged a return to good fortune for charities.

He said several new, high-profile events are under “active discussion” for the coming year.

“I am determined to develop community spirit and everything will then fall into place. Saddleworth Round Table has a respected heritage in the community and we have a terrific team to build on that and take our initiatives forward.”