THE STREETS of Neston were once again brought to a standstill as the 202nd Ladies Day walk got underway through the town.

Hundreds of women and children put on their best dresses and carried their bouquets of flowers down towards St Mary and St Helen’s church.

The walk, is a tradition in Neston dating back to 1814 which has always been held on the first Thursday in June, apart from during the war years.

The event is organised by the Neston Female Society.

Zoey Cullinan, 33 told the Globe she has travelled up from London just to take part in the walk.

She said: “I grew up in Neston and have took part since I was five-years-old.

“It’s not only a traditional for Neston but has become a family traditional too, we have five generations walking today.”

“The fact I now live in London doesn’t stop me taking part.”

There was entertainment, a fun fair and of course the Scots Guard Association band which led the walkers.

The event is the highlight of the year for Neston Female Society, the only surviving female society of this type in the country.

More than one hundred participants set off at 2pm today, heading to the church for a short service.

Maureen Collings, 68 has lived in Neston all her life and enjoys seeing everyone coming together for the occasion.

She said: “There is something for everyone and it is great to see everyone out on the streets looking lovely in their dresses and flowers.”

Local band Hip and Harmony, entertained the crowds before the walk began.

The band is made up of Neston residents Jodie Webber, Shannon Murphy and Jodie’s mum Charlie Webber.

After their performance, Charlie said: “We have performed at this event for a couple of years now and I love it.

“Jodie used to walk in the parade until we got the gig.”

“All of Neston comes out for it, it is great this year that the schools are off too.”

“This is the busiest day in Neston.”