THE age-old Good Friday trek to the top of the 1,000ft high Rivington Pike attracted thousands of people on Good Friday.

Following generations before them, families, couples and dog walkers stretched their legs on a perfect day for walking.

The annual pilgrimage up the Pike was started by Christians in the 1800s to remember Christ's suffering following his crucifixion.

The majority simply undertook the walk to keep up with their family tradition -- or simply to enjoy the sunny weather. The walkers included Stephen Roach, who, accompanied by his girlfriend, Alison Spibey made it to the top -- on crutches!

Stephen, aged 17, of Hope Street, Horwich, broke his shin 11 weeks ago but was determined to keep up with tradition.

Alison, aged 16, of Burns Avenue, Atherton, said: "I've come up here on Good Friday since I was a baby so wanted to do it this year, even though Stephen's on crutches!"

Gill Houghton and sister-in-law Karen Terras, both of Horwich, trekked up to the Pike with their families.

Gill said: "This is the first time we have done this together.

"The children came home from school one day and the teacher had asked how many children would be climbing the Pike and and they said they wanted to go."

A few rides, a bouncy castle and plenty of sweet stalls at the bottom of the Pike entertained the children.

Meanwhile, the fire service has repeated its appeal for care after vast areas of moorland were devastated by fire.