This walking day will be one to remember (From Warrington Guardian)

This walking day will be one to remember

THIS weekend's walking day will form a poignant memory in the hearts and minds of the Orford community after it was confirmed that the route of future walks will be cut short.

Sunday will be the final time that walkers will parade down Poplars Avenue after the police confirmed that they cannot afford to continue stewarding community events.

Faced with fewer resources, the committee has announced that future walks will be shorter than the traditional event, although police have agreed to steward this Sunday's event with help from local churches.

For the final time, walkers will follow the traditional route - left into School Road, Morgan Avenue, Statham Avenue, Poplars Avenue, Hallows Avenue, Hallfields Road and into Orford Park.

The walk will set off from St Margaret's school field just after noon, led by the Latchford Silver band. They will also be joined by St Ann's Church and school and the Emmaus Christian Fellowship.

Juliet Legge, treasurer of the Orford Park Community Festival Committee, said: "St Margaret's are planning to shorten the walk next year because we do not have the manpower or experience to steward the walk safely, so this is the last year we will be walking down Poplars Avenue.

"We plan to go ahead with walking day next year but with a much shorter, revised route."

However, the Orford Festival continues to go from strength to strength.

Centre stage this year will be The Black Eagles - an African acrobatic team. The large children's corner will feature a juggler, magician and Punch and Judy, as well as a fun racing dogs team for all ages.

Visitors will have the opportunity to try their hand at beating out a few rhythms in a drum workshop and young and old alike will be fascinated by the rangers road show featuring a menagerie of wildlife, including rabbits, ducks, hens, quail and ferrets.

The festival starts at 12.30pm and entrance is free. Chadwick's Fair will be there along with the usual selection of food outlets, including refreshments in the community centre.