A community-wide appeal has been launched to support the famous Whit Friday church walks, one of Saddleworth's longest-running events.

The colourful event, traditionally held on the first Friday after Pentecost, attracts hundreds of spectators from the local villages and beyond.

Families and friends use the event, which will this year fall on May 24,  together with the famous band contests in the evening as a reason to get together and reminisce.

The walks affected are those involving the churches of Saint Chad Saddleworth, Sacred Heart & Saint William, Ebenezer Congregational, Uppermill Methodist, Christ Church Friezland, Saint Anne Lydgate, Kilngreen Mission, and Holy Trinity Dobcross.

Paul Wooding, Churchwarden for Holy Trinity, said: “Historically, the church walks have been funded by the churches themselves. However, due to escalating costs, this is simply no longer viable and the future of the walks themselves may be in doubt.

“Organisers have taken the unusual step of issuing a plea for donations from outside the usual sources seeking support from members of the public and/or local businesses in an attempt to save future walks.

“They are trying to raise £1,000 towards the overall cost and would ask anyone who enjoys the walks for as much of a donation as they see fit.”

He added: “Donating to the appeal is simple, all you have to do is visit https://gofund.me/ba2878ad”