Popular annual event in Chesterfield cancelled because of coronavirus

Congregations from dozens of churches take part in the ‘Whit Walks’ processions on Spring Bank Holiday Monday every year in one of Chesterfield’s oldest traditions.

This year would have marked the event’s 170th anniversary and The High Sheriff of Derbyshire was among the dignitaries set to attend.

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Churches in the area have been informed about the cancellation but organisers are also warning the many people who gather by the roadside to watch the processions.

Organisers say they hope to ‘bounce back’ in 2021 with a ‘170+1’ event.

The walks bring decorated floats and marching bands to the streets of Chesterfield, often departing from the Town Hall and travelling down Knifesmithgate, along Cavendish Street, Newbold Road, Queen Street, Tennyson Avenue and Saltergate in the town centre.