HOLCOMBE is preparing itself for hundreds of visitors as believers and non-believers alike descend on the village to celebrate Good Friday.

Although the traditional Walk of Witness led by church leaders through Ramsbottom town centre has been cancelled, special services will be held.

A sunrise service at 7am will be held at the foot of Holcombe Hill followed by a joint service by the parishioners of Emmanuel Holcombe Church and St Mary's Church in Hawkshaw at Hawkshaw Methodist Church at 10.30am.

The original Walk of Witness, led by church ministers carrying the cross up to Peel Tower, was abandoned several years ago and replaced by a shorter walk through Ramsbottom.