Teletubbies, traffic cones and blind mice take over Edgworth in charity race

Sunday, 28 December 2025 20:24

By David Murphy

Teletubbies, blind mice, and Top Gun pilots brought festive chaos to the streets of Edgworth on Sunday as the village’s annual charity three-legged race returned, raising thousands for Cancer Research UK.

Now a firm fixture in Edgworth’s social calendar, the fancy dress event saw 58 teams of tied-up runners dash from pub to pub in elaborate costumes, with spectators treated to the sight of life-sized traffic cones, Scooby-Doo characters, and more weaving through the village.

Beginning and ending at The Barlow Institute, the midday race was organised by local resident Mike Fay, who said the event originally began as a tribute to a woman who died of cancer.

“It started with a pub crawl in her memory, and it’s just grown and grown,” Mike said. “Everyone here is from Edgworth. It’s by the community and for the community.”

The route featured seven pub stops, with each team expected to have a drink at every venue. Stewards were stationed throughout to keep the more unsteady runners heading in the right direction.

Many travelled from across Bolton and neighbouring boroughs to take part, with one participant even returning from Australia.

General manager of The Barlow, Jasmine Coleman, said: “It’s a real highlight for the community and a brilliant fundraiser for Cancer Research UK. It also benefits us as a charity, bringing everyone together.”

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Annual 3-legged race in Edgeworth

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This year’s after-party included a live band and more festive cheer, with a strong turnout from families and first-time volunteers.

Local residents Alison Johnson and David Knight took part as stewards. “We help out at the library here and just thought we’d give it a go,” Alison said. “There’s such a warm atmosphere.”

“There’s a real community spirit to it,” added David. “You’ve got whole families signing up together.”

The event is expected to raise around £3,000 for Cancer Research UK. Donations are still open through the official fundraising page at Cancer Research UK

The three-legged race has been held in Edgworth since 1972, though it faced cancellation in 2006 after licence difficulties. The tradition was revived 15 years later by local organiser Ellie Ramwell, and it has since gone from strength to strength.