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Saddleworth is an area in Greater Manchester, England, but was historically part of Yorkshire.
It is part of the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham. Situated east from the centre of Oldham, the Saddleworth area is situated on The Pennines hill range and is noted for its hilly landscape. Saddleworth is formed by a collection of villages, including Springhead, Uppermill, Greenfield, Dobcross, Grasscroft, Diggle, Delph, Grotton, Lydgate and Friezland.
Saddleworth has a large number of annual customs and traditons, many of which are held during Pentecost. On Whit Friday morning, congregations from the churches of all of the Saddleworth villages parade into Uppermill, where a religious service is held. Later in the evening, the Whit Friday brass band contests take place. These were originated and are still centered around the Saddleworth area, and all of the local villages hold a competition. Bands from around the UK and the world annually travel to the area to compete. Many of the other surrounding areas of Saddleworth now also hold a contest due to the huge popularity of the event, both with local people and brass bands. On the following saturday, the beer walk is held. This is a massive fundraising event where participants walk around Saddleworth in fancy dress, stopping off at many of Saddleworth's pubs along the way for half a pint of lager. Spectators are encouraged to give money to the participants for charity.
The MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth is Phil Woolas.Saddleworth moor was also the place where the moors murderers Myra Hindley and Ian Brady buried the 5 victims. The body of Keith Bennet, the killers third victim has never been found to this day
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