‘Ride the Lights’ has been a popular favourite over many years, attracting riders and walkers of all ages and from all areas across the North West. It is an event when, for one night only, Blackpool’s promenade is closed off to all vehicles.
The closure of the promenade is so that many 100s of participants can pedal or walk the full or part distance between Starr Gate and Bispham’s Red Bank Road. As darkness falls everyone can enjoy a pre-switch-on viewing of the year’s illuminations and latest designs, ahead of the official civic ‘switch-on’ which usually takes place a few days later.
In spite of the worst weather for the event in four years, a few hardy West Lancashire Masons, some with keen support from local brethren and family members, came out and braved the elements to participate in the 2024 ‘Ride the Lights’. The Province of West Lancashire promotes this event in aid of West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity.
This year, the riders, John Topping, South Fylde Group Strategic Publicity Officer, David Jenkinson, South Fylde Group Charity Steward and Malcolm Sandywell, Regional Charity Steward for Southport, Ormskirk and Bootle Groups were supported by Bob Marsden, the Fylde Coast Regional Charity Steward and his wife Tooney. Also, in attendance were Steve and Marguerite Smith and Vincent Carte.
John, David and Malcolm set off from South Pier and valiantly worked their way north through the persistent rain and along the promenade as darkness fell across the coastline.
John Topping said: “Although last year’s event took place in much finer weather, it was very pleasant for us to cycle on a much quieter promenade and to be able to see the illuminations much more easily. We were clapped on many occasions by groups of well-wishers near the Tower and Talbot Square. Hopefully, next year we will have better weather. We are grateful to both Marguerite and Tooney for taking some excellent photos prior to our departure.”
Bob Marsden said: “We have already collected in a number of lodge and chapter donations but are expecting further donations and sponsorships to come in. We will then be in a position to release a total figure of the amount raised, hopefully in the not too distant future.”