Hundreds turn out to support Rotary walk

Among the 370 who took part in the annual event was Misty the gorilla, who was sporting a very fetching pink feather boa.

Young and old walked along the 20 miles of canal towpath from Sowerby Bridge to Horbury in both directions to raise money for Overgate, Forget Me Not,Kirkwood and Wakefield hospices.

Septugenarian Frank Milner, president of Ossett Rotary Club, walked both ways for the second successive year.

All those taking part – including the gorilla – received an official certificate on completion of the walk.

Sixteen different clubs were involved in organising and marshalling the walk and over the course of the day more than 120 individual Rotarians and other helpers were ensuring walkers were on the right path and staying safe.

Money is still being counted but last year the event raised nearly £18,000.

The walk was instigated in 2011 by the Rotary Club of Horbury and Ossett Phoenix which continues to be central to its organisation and administration.

Rotarian Olwen Edwards said “It was a terrific, bright sunny spring day. The walkers smiled all the way delighted to be suddenly free from the snow. I have never seen so many eagerly wagging tails on dogs eager for a long walk.

“They seemed keen to make the acquaintance of the gorilla!”