THE route may have been slightly changed but Padgate and Woolston Walking Day proved as popular as ever on Saturday.

From young to old, churches and schools from across the area took part in the annual jamboree with crowds lining the heart of the route on Padgate Lane.

More than 2,000 people joined the parade, with as many again watching from the sidelines -- some in deckchairs after they got in early to secure the best view.

The traditional starting route for Woolston and Fearnhead schools and churches was changed at the last minute following police and council advice.

Woolston churches and schools met near Padgate station at Millman's Yard while Padgate and Fearnhead followers met at Padgate High School.

Yet it didn't stop the colour and noise, with five brass bands joining the day.

One group of pensioners from Risley Methodist Church made their way in the parade on the back of a black 4x4.

And one of the bands had an extra-special reason to celebrate - Padgate Brass were presented with £5,000 from the Warrington Guardian thanks to our parent company Gannett from its charitable wing, the Gannett Foundation.

Peter Edwards, secretary of Padgate and Woolston Walking Day Committee, said: "The community enjoyed a brilliant day and everyone made that extra effort. Every priest, vicar and minister turned out.

"Unfortunately, the police insisted on driving a car at the front of the parade, which was totally inappropriate and pointless.

"The people of Padgate are in despair about the attitude exhibited by the police towards their major festival. However, the police are only responding to orders and the officers did their best on the day. The schools are determined not to let police indifference finish off their walking day."

gdunning@guardiangrp.co.uk