Keith said: “It was such a memorable occasion.

“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm that the people of Merseyside showed to commemorate the tunnel’s 75th anniversary.

“There were people with medals from the first tunnel walk and other people shared stories about their parents walking through the tunnel 75 years ago.”

Among those taking part in the walk were Jan Davies, 54, from Wallasey, and husband John Davies, 62.

Mrs Davies, a nursing auxiliary, said: “My late father Sam Rogers walked through the Queensway Tunnel when it first opened 75 years ago. He died two years ago so we wanted to walk in memory of him.

“It has been a fantastic event for Merseyside and was held for a very worthy cause.”

Michael Porter, 66, said: “Our company, Porter Brothers Ltd, made all the decorations and flags which were used for the celebrations 75 years ago so we decided to join the walk and celebrate the 75th anniversary.”

Claire House area fundraiser for Merseyside, Helen Carlson, said: “We would like to say the biggest thank you and applaud the staff at Merseytravel for helping to make this event happen and thank everyone who attended the walk.

“The funds raised are vital for Claire House to sustain our operational service for families on Merseyside.

“We were delighted to see so many people, including celebrities, turn out to support Claire House.”

Famous faces included actor Michael Starke, comedian Stan Boardman, Coronation Street actor Andy Wyman, The Farm’s Peter Hooton, former Scaffold singer John Gorman and photographer Mike McCartney.

OPINION: PAGE 8