IT'S been described as “the greatest free show on earth” and, despite the pandemic, Saddleworth’s galaxy of musical talent supported by colourful input from across the globe celebrated Whit Friday 2020 in style.

Special videos showing the very best of Whit Friday, some linking poignant memories, were shown across social media reliving the famous festival spirit.

John Eccles, president of Diggle Band Club, said: "It's always been a fantastic experience. It is many things too many people.

“We have the church groups who take great pride in marching in the mornings all dressed up in their Sunday best looking quite magnificent as they parade proudly behind the banners and bands.

“One face I would have missed is the late great Rev Duncan Rhodes who for the last 32 years of me walking has always been at the centre of proceedings shepherding his flock of villagers down to the service in Uppermill, always with a smile and a kind word to everyone.

“Our villages have the organisations, the cubs, the scouts and various other youth organisations who take part in it and feel a part of the community even if it’s only for the day.

“Then we have the Brass Band Competitions across the villages which have a huge following from all around the world. And people make lifelong friendships at the events too.

“Personally, I missed my annual walk this year but when I saw the hailstorm I did thank my lucky stars. Anyone who has walked to Uppermill from Diggle will tell you that frequently on the walk you can experience four seasons weather in the three hours it takes to make the journey in Uppermill and back.

“Hopefully, by this time next year I shall be getting myself prepared to take part in what I consider to be the greatest free event on the planet," he added. "Then again I am biased — I come from Saddleworth.”

Another villager said: “We've had "hail", sunshine and rain so far! I also heard a few rumbles of thunder....just like a 'normal' Whit Friday. Just a very different virtual experience alongside it all.”

Saddleworth Day of Music encouraged villagers to post short films and links of themselves playing music to their social media page.

Youtube footage can be seen here

They said: “It doesn't have to be brass - all instruments are welcome including the human voice. Let's make the June 5 a day of music in Saddleworth.”

And Four Hills Music produced a touching Whit Spirit Movie: "To Saddleworth with Love" by 60 brass players from thirty-six different bands across the British Isles and four continents

Their spokesperson said: “In this challenging year when we can't come together in person, here is our heartfelt tribute to Saddleworth, the people, the place and to Whit Friday brass banding. We hope you enjoy it and that it makes you smile...Keep the music playing.”