AN annual tradition of walking from a Radley pub to Oxford and back has taken place for the 50th year.

The 12.5 mile trek, which takes place on Good Friday, started out as a bet between George Steptoe and Jack Parsons in 1963.

The fastest to get to Oxford and back from the Bowyer Arms would have a pint bought for him by the loser. Mr Parsons won.

About 40 people took part in this year’s event, which now raises money through a raffle for the village.

Radley resident Sharon Hopgood, 40, said: “I do it just to keep the tradition going. It was ideal weather for it this year.

“I was born in Radley and I have been going to the walk since I was a kid. It brings the village together.”

Her friend Liz Mergel, 32, of Sutton Courtenay, also took part, along with her brother’s two-year-old Jack Russell terrier Baby.

She said: “We beat our time of two hours and 58 minutes last year by seven minutes, so we were well chuffed.

“It is a village tradition and it is just something different to do on Good Friday.”