As the sun bathed Lancashire in warmth last weekend, the idea of spending an entire evening outdoors might not have seemed too far-fetched. However, fast forward a few days and 48 hours of relentless rain has made this a considerably less appealing prospect. Especially when 'outdoors' refers to a stretch of Market Street in Darwen.
Yet, surprisingly, there were a few brave individuals settling in for the long haul this afternoon. What could possess these grown men to do this? The answer - not for the first time - is trainers. READ MORE: Men shot and stabbed in violent 'disturbance' in Oldham "There's a guy from Holland and there was a guy from Peru," one told LancsLive today (May 23).
"They come from absolutely all over the world. It's massive." These shoe enthusiasts are after a very specific pair.
An exclusive limited edition trainer. The £100 Blackburn (DECADE) trainers, part of the Spezial range designed by Darwen-born Gary Aspden, are going on sale at the exhibition in the designer's hometown from tomorrow morning (May 24). Collectors queue for a set of limited edition Adidas trainers designed by Gary Aspden (centre) (Image: No credit) With only 100 pairs available, fans of the iconic brand have set up camp on Market Street to ensure they're first through the door.
Equipped with tents, sleeping bags and food, they began arriving in the town centre from 5am this morning. Some had journeyed from as far away as Peru to be first in line. Other local enthusiasts of the fashi.
