VIDEO: THOUSANDS of people took to the streets today in glorious sunshine for the annual Warrington Walking Day Walk of Witness – as Warrington remembered victims of the Tunisia shooting atrocity.
An estimated 3,000 walkers, accompanied by marching bands, joined what is believed to have been the 181st Walking Day.
There were prayers and a minutes silence in memory of the Tunisia shooting victims.
Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Geoff and Mrs Jean Settle took the salute from a raised dais in front of the Golden Gatesalong with their charity champion Hashtag Teddy George, proudly wearing a Warrington Wolves scarf after last night’s victory over Wigan, as representatives of the various churches, schools and other organisations marched proudly passed.
The sun shone, the sky was mainly blue and conditions were perfect for the annual Walking Day.
It was believed to be the 181st Walk – and it was also the 100th anniversary of the only year the Walk was cancelled.
The Walk was cancelled in 1915 because of the First World War – and pupils and staff from St Benedict’s RC Primary School marked the occasion by walking in “period” costume.
Girls wore traditional white dresses but their headdresses were gold circlets – chosen because it was also the centenary of the opening of St Benedict’s Church.
Boys wore flat cap and braces.
Churches, schools and other organisations were represented in the parade.
The route took in Sankey Street, Arpley Street, Museum Street, St Austin’s Lane, Friars Gate, Bridge Street, Market Gate and Horsemarket Street.
Warrington Walking Day was originally founded by a former Rector of Warrington as a counter-attraction to Newton Races which, he believed, were attracting many townsfolk to gambling and drink.
Newton Races died out years ago – but the great Walk of Christian Witness continues.
To see more Walking Day pictures, click on the link below
