MORE than 15,000 people enjoyed a Sunday stroll under the River Mersey yesterday. The walkers streamed through the Queensway Tunnel from a soggy St George’s plateau from 11am to around 3pm.

Despite the drizzle, a carnival atmosphere, aided by the upbeat Love and Joy Gospel Choir, entertained the crowds.

It was only the fourth time the tunnels have been opened for pedestrians, and the rare opportunity drew families from all over Merseyside.

They were sent on their way by Phil Redmond, creative director of Liverpool Culture Company, whose spluttering klaxon earned a few chuckles at the start line.

The walk from Liverpool to Queensway is the first since 1994 and last night Merseytravel announced their intentions to run the event next year.

A spokesman said: “What we’re looking at is to celebrate the 75th anniversary.

“We don’t want it to become an annual event because that would devalue the experience, but it would be good to continue what has been achieved this year.”

Yesterday’s walkthrough was designed to celebrate the city’s status as European Capital of Culture. Entertainment included a traditional Hakka, normally performed before New Zealand All Black rugby matches, but this time used to help motivate the walkers as they headed off.

The drums of the Boys Brigade beat out a rhythm along the entire 2.34 miles.

The Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and a vintage car rally rewarded those who climbed the final slopes into Birkenhead. And a ride on vintage buses linked the tunnel to the ferry terminal.

An indefatigable Boys Brigade band continued to entertain on the river crossing.

John Woodward, of Wallasey, was one of those enjoying the experience.

He said: “I came down here before they opened the tunnel to traffic. I’ve been down both of them on foot and it’s great to see.”

Sheila Bruce, from Melling, enjoyed the walk with friend Monica Syratt and Margaret Livingstone. She said: “It’s been brilliant apart from the weather and the atmosphere is fantastic as you walk through.”

Like many, the Flood family used the walk as a way of celebrating Father’s Day.

Their extended relations, including the Edmonton family from West Derby and Moffatts from Aigburth, went through together.

Grandmother Eileen Flood said: “The Gospel choirs kept us entertained outside and we’re really enjoying the chance to do this together.”

Dotted along the route beneath the city were posters explaining which city landmarks people were passing beneath.

Val and John Frew, of Allerton, stopped immediately below the Municipal Buildings.

She said: “It’s another proud day for Liverpool, and I feel very pleased to have got involved.”

They earned their specially cast commemorative medals, which Merseytravel handed out at Birkenhead, by pushing their 86-year-old mother, Cathy Enston, in a wheelchair.

TO SEE a video of the tunnel walk, visit www.liverpooldaily post.co.uk

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