Viking walk to commemorate patron saint of Scandinavia taking place in Wirral later this month

Jul 21 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

A VIKING heritage walk starts from Neston later this month.

The annual 13-mile walk will take place on Saturday, July 31, beginning at St Mary’s and St Helen’s Church in Neston at 9.30am.

The route will take in Burton, Puddington, Shotwick and Blacon and finishes at St Olave’s Church in Chester.

The walk is held each year to commemorate St Olav, the “Viking Saint” and patron saint of Scandinavia.

Stein Thue, who organises a similar walk in Norway, is attending and the walk will be led by Norway’s St. Olav Pilgrim Priest Kjell Skarterhagen.

Professor Stephen Harding, of Nottingham University, said: “We’ve got people doing it for faith reasons and others who want to take part to celebrate Wirral’s Viking heritage.

“Last time we had around 30 hardy souls so we’re hoping for more this time.

“People can take it at their own pace.”

A good standard of fitness is required and all walkers must register before taking part.

For more information call the Grosvenor Museum Chester on 01244 402005 or e-mail steve.harding@nottingham.ac.uk