Burnley panto performers swap the stage for the road in 'Quest to Camelot' cycling challenge

Greenbrook Pantomime Society are set to perform Camelot the Panto in January, 2021.

But as Covid 19 may put a halt to the curtain rising on the production they set themselves a challenge to offset the loss of anticicpated revenue from the show.

As regular fund raising activities are suspended due to the pandemic, they knew they had to come up with a challenge with a difference. And, in keeping with the theme of their panto, members came up with the mission to cycle 30 miles to Camelot, the abandoned theme park near Chorley.

Led by committee member and cycle enthusiast David Gorton, society members of different ages and cycling abilities undertook a training regime to get them ready to mount their noble steeds. David said that some of the riders even became 'cyclists overnight' as they took to training several times a week to make the project a reality.

The knights split into three groups to adhere to social distancing measures and include the Bishops, Nell's Crew and Arthur's Lads. They set off from the church in Greenbrook Road on Sunday at 10am and pedalled their way to Camelot, arriving at 2-45pm.

They wore t shirts sponsored by LAW Cleaning Contractors, as company director Lee Whalley and his stepson Max Whitehead were among the cyclists.

Along the route were a number of different check points and at each one the group were greeted by a team of loyal supporters with plenty of refreshments.

Alongside the support team of Bob Bennet and Victoria Riley, Practical Vehicle Rental provided a support van and gave their time to ensure the riders were motivated and remained fed and watered on route.

After the riders arrived at Camelot, a small socially distanced Jacobs Join took place where supporters and riders celebrated their achievements.

Once back in Burnley the gang held celebratory drinks at Lowerhouse Cricket Club, where a donation bucket was passed around, raising £28.40.

After setting a fundraising target of £500 the challenge has now raised the grand total of £1,213 and donations can still be made to the fund until Sunday.

Society chairman Ryan Bradley said: “Our society is more than just a show. We are a sociable bunch and getting together, supporting each other towards a common goal despite the obstacles in the way is what we do.

"This bike ride has given us a new focus whilst we have been forced away from our usual activities."

The riders were: Ryan Bradley, Derren Hirst, Olivia Hirst, Amelia Hirst, Helen Ingham, Olly Bushby, Martin Johnson, Jason Morris, Anthony Heys, Lee Whalley, Karl Pilkington, John Frankland, Morgan Stephenson, Oliver Stephenson, Max Whitehead, Lewis Haworth and Terry Haworth.