Rossendale Round the Hills Walk

On Sunday 1^st September the 57^th annual Rossendale Round the Hills walk saw 730 walkers and many dogs tackle this iconic 18 or 14 mile walk around the lovely but challenging Rossendale hills.  Dull weather and some rain later in the day did not in any way dampen the spirits of those who took part.  This year the walk started and finished at Rossendale Sports Club at Marl Pits, which gave weary walkers the chance to relax and socialise after their efforts.  The Mayor of Rossendale, Cllr Judith Driver and her consort Cllr Danielle Ashworth spent several hours in the club, chatting to walkers and presenting certificates, while local MP and mountain climber Andy MacNea also popped in for a while. 

As ever, some runners arrived back in about three hours, while the walkers took anywhere between 6- 8 hours.  Local runner Ashley Smith actually ran the full course twice, taking one minute less than 7 hours!!  Whole families and their furry friends had a wonderful day together, as did Derek Sheridan, who came over from Ireland for the 50^th walk, and came over again for this one.  Another walker was Adele Gardner, enjoying her last Round the Hills walk before emigrating to Australia.

Rossendale Rotary would like to thank the Rossendale & Pendle Mountain Rescue Team for attending, and are thankful that they were not called to any incident on the day.  The proceeds of the bucket collection will be presented to them.  Every walker will want us to thank Lee Ashworth, Edgeside Baptist Church, and the Speakman family for their generosity in providing food and water along the way.  We are also grateful to other local Rotary clubs and friends for their help on the day, without which this event could not take place.