THE ORGANISERS of the Ozzy Walk to mark the first anniversary of the death of legend Ozzy Osborne have hailed the inaugural event a great success.
The walk was the brainchild of Roy Jones from Northfield and Gary Haywood from West Heath. Helping them put it together were Shirley Ronan and Jennifer Carnduff from Rubery and Frankley.
The walk took place on Wednesday – deemed ‘Ozzy Day’ after a meet and greet. More than 30 people walked from Villa Park to the Black Sabbath Bench on Broad Street.
Ozzy was a massive Aston Villa fan and undertook his final ever performance at Villa Park. The sell-out gig was on July 5 last year – just 17 days before his death.
The walk passed by Ozzy’s former house and raised funds for the charity ‘I’m Homeless, Get Me Out of Here’.
Shirley said: “Roy approached me for help knowing I had set up charity events in the past.
“The day was amazing – Roy, who is 74 with a walking disability, managed to walk four miles.
“Me and Jennifer set up a merchandise table at the Brasshouse selling flowers, fridge magnets, badges
sweets and posters to help with the sponsorships.
“A great day was had by all celebrating the legend Ozzy while helping people that are in need.”
The walk was part of a wider Ozzy Day commemoration held in the musician’s home city.
People flocked to the Black Sabbath Bridge and bench on Broad Street, where flowers had been laid.
Others had their photos taken with Ozzy the Bull in New Street Station which took centre stage four years ago at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
And there was a giant inflatable Ozzy Osbourne in Victoria Square, outside the Birmingham City Council House.
It is hoped, going forward, Ozzy Day and the Ozzy Walk will become an annual.
People can still donate to the ‘I’m Homeless, Get Me Out of Here’ cause by visiting the Ozzy Walk Facebook page and clicking through to pledge cash.
