HUNDREDS of walking enthusiasts braved wet and windy conditions in aid of a historic landmark.

The event to help find £100,000 to repair Darwen Tower was originally scheduled for July 22 but had to be postponed after heather and peat caught fire.

But the The Big Tower Walk was rescheduled for Sunday and it saw hardy walkers set off from their normal walking routes at 10am and head up to the tower.

Around 500 walkers managed to reach the tower at the same time.

The fundraising walk was arranged by WORK at Over Darwen House, who are making a documentary This Is Darwen in which the walk will be a key feature.

The event saw ‘Darreners’ filmed walking to the tower.

Walk organiser Samantha Taylor said the aim was to get as many people up the tower at exactly the same time in aid of the film.

It is then hoped that the film can support a Heritage Lottery Fund bid for money towards repairs for the tower.

Ms Taylor said: “The weather was horrific and there were really strong winds and loads of rain.

“But Darreners are used to it and we got our wellies on and walked up to the tower, while wheelchair user Roman Rothwell also managed to get to the top with his dad Jason.

“We had two film makers who filmed walkers but unfortunately a drone couldn’t go up due to the weather

“Darwen Rotary Club want to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the walk.”

It comes after an inspection earlier this year revealed loose sections of concrete and surrounding masonry on the underside of the tower’s top viewing platform.

It was temporarily closed for short-term safety repairs, reopening at the beginning of June.

More work needs to be done to secure the safe use of the tower in the future.

The Friends of Darwen Tower group has estimated the repairs will cost around £100,000 for permanent repairs, and launched a fundraising campaign to find the cash.

Darwen Rotary Club is working with Blackburn with Darwen Council to explore a possible Heritage Lottery bid to help with the cost.