Among those taking part was retired Minister John Hopkins.

The proud Welshman has shared his memories of the popular annual day with Flashback readers.

He said: "When I came to Chorley in July 1980 to be the Minister at Hollinshead Street United Reformed Church, the only churches that participated in Walking Day were the five Anglican churches in the town.

"It wasn't until the latter half of the 80s that the invitation to take part was made.

"This was due mainly to a stronger surge in ecumenism and most of the non-conformist churches eagerly accepted that invitation.

"These churches processed behind the Anglican church in whose parish they were situated.

"I shall never forget the welcome we received from the crowds that lined Market Street. Those crowds sadly have diminished but the walk goes on.

"Well over a thousand people still take part which must be the largest procession of its type in the town's calendar.

"With the coming of the ring road it was felt to be too dangerous for the old format to continue, so it was decided that all the churches would congregate at the Big Lamp, walk through the town centre and finish up at St George's for a brief service.

"Such days took place in all kinds of weather from the blistering hot to the icy cold, even though the date was fixed on the last Saturday of June.

"If it was windy then the banner carriers really had their work cut out!
"I am well aware that there are many who have far longer memories of this day than me, and that in many decades it appears that only once has it been called off because of heavy rain and that was quite recently.

"It is a unique occasion because it is more than a procession, it is a Walk of Witness. Long may it continue."