Mossley gave a warm welcome to a group of young Christians as they trekked through the town as part of a pilgrimage which spans the whole country.

In November, world leaders will meet in Glasgow for the COP26 meeting on important climate negotiations.

The Young Christian Climate Network has taken on a relay walk for climate justice - walking from Cornwall to Glasgow, calling on world leaders to address the Climate Emergency.

The YCCN organised the relay route where young activists each complete a stage. Instead of carrying a physical baton, each group will carry the same message of crucial action needed to reverse climate change.

Members of the YCCN started the walk in Truro, near to where the G7 met in summer. They plan to reach Glasgow in time for November’s UN climate talks, after walking 1,200 miles.

The walkers passed through Mossley on Monday and Tuesday and stayed overnight at St John’s Church in Roughtown.

The group said on their website: “COP26 is a moment of opportunity and of decision.

“Our sisters and brothers in churches around the world are losing their livelihoods and homes, and we stand with them.

“Climate-vulnerable countries cannot access finance for adaptation and climate-induced loss and damages without incurring further debt. COP26 is the time to change this.

“We must hold our government accountable to delivering and exceeding the promised $100bn/year in climate finance. It’s time to rise to the moment.

“In years to come, we want to be able to look back and say ‘we did not sit at home while unjust decisions were made on our doorstep, we set sail towards a just future.’”

The vicar of Mossley, Rev David Warner, who welcomed the group, said: “It was a great joy to welcome the Young Christian Climate Network walking relay to Mossley on Monday/Tuesday - we’re delighted this national event passed through our parish and were glad to offer hospitality and to worship with those taking part too!

“With members of other churches, we welcomed walkers from their stage from Manchester, and wished them well on the next stage, as the walking relay makes its way to the COP26 meeting in Glasgow.

“We were especially grateful to Mossley Methodist Church for their help with the costs of hospitality. You can find out more at yccn.uk.”

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