MANY of our older readers will recall a time when walks were held in Bolton and the surrounding towns and villages to celebrate various occasions.

A large number of these were church-related and the individual churches would have their own walks but often meet up with other churches along the way.

Ian Turnbull has kept this photograph of his son carrying a flag on a whit walk ever since it was taken by a Bolton Evening News photographer in May, 1978.

In fact it was taken on May 14 which is, coincidentally, 75-year-old Ian’s birthday.

He and wife Kay, aged 74, were actively involved in St George’s Church in Plodder Lane, Farnworth.

They lived nearby and still live in the same house.

Their three children, Glenn, Stephanie and Grant, were also regulars at the church.

This particular photograph shows a young Glenn, he is aged 52 now, in a procession which Ian believes also contained his wife and other two children.

The group Glenn is leading, proudly carrying the flag, is the Mothers’ Union.

In those days Glenn was in the choir, said Ian.

Whit walks were an important part of church life, he added, although many were eventually stopped due to rising costs.

“You had to pay for the police to accompany you and the band who played the hymns as you stopped in the various local streets,” he said.

The youngsters would be kitted out at Jean Dawson’s shop in St Helens Road where smart children’s clothing could be bought.

“It was always a very special day,” said Ian.

Everyone enjoyed the event and as St George’s was the ‘daughter church of St James’, St James’ would also join the walk.

Whit walks were of particular importance in Bolton and surrounding districts.

Whit Friday, meaning White Friday, is the name given to the first Friday after Pentecost or Whitsun (White Sunday).

The day has a cultural significance in North West England, as the date on which the annual whit walks were traditionally held.

This tradition dates back to at least as early as the beginning of the 19th century, although it could even be earlier.

This was a time when churches had a very important role to play in families’ lives.

Their religion was part of their heritage and taking part in the walks was vital to them to show their devotion to their chosen church.

For mill workers, in particular, it was an opportunity to be away from the daily grind of the mill.

It was also a lovely way for families to get together and enjoy their free time.

Today there are far fewer whit walks than in the past and the tradition has definitely waned.

If you have memories of walking celebrations, contact Gayle McBain by email at gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk