Thornley near Longridge. Over 100 people attended the Derby Arms traditional Christmas walk which took place on Bank Holiday Monday.

This highly popular event on the Inn's calendar of events is now in its third decade.

“We realise that after Christmas many of our customers are ready for a break from the usual festivities and wish to step out into the countryside,” explained proprietor William Walne.

“We offer a terrific experience – a morning coffee followed by an expertly led walk and then a three course meal prepared from delicious locally sourced food.”

“We seem to appeal to two types of customer,” added his wife Carol.

“Our regular diners who take the opportunity to explore the lovely countryside close to the pub. And walkers who take the chance to sample our cuisine.”

Customers are offered two walks.

A short route of two miles and a longer route of four or five miles. For the second year in a row snow and freezing conditions affected the walk.

“A few customers cancelled because they were naturally concerned about the weather,” said William, “There had been another fall of snow on Sunday evening.

"However we are lucky to have the services of David Johnstone, secretary of the Norwest Fellwalking Club who was able to modify the long walk to suit conditions.

“Besides anything else the bracing weather seems to have a powerful effect on the appetite of our customers when they return to the pub.”