In a year where many events have been cancelled or postponed, the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust has given the go-ahead for the annual Ride+Stride event to take place.
Every year, cyclists, walkers and horseriders raise money to support churches in Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire and North Bristol, by being sponsored to visit churches and chapels on any route of their choice.
In a year when so many of us have been out walking and exploring in nature more frequently than normal, this is a perfect year to get involved. Exploring our countryside and our historic buildings is a great way to get some exercise, while still being careful to physically distance from others.
If you are unable to travel this year, they are introducing an option for people to do a sponsored activity of their own choice at home, or making a donation.
Ray Singleton, GHCT Ride+Stride Organiser said “We are delighted that Ride+Stride has the go ahead for this year. It is always an important event for GHCT and for the historic buildings we support. With churches having been shut for so long, the need for financial help for church renovation and maintenance is probably greater than ever, so raising funds is important this year to enable us to maintain our grant programme. Although this year’s event will be different, we are confident it will be as enjoyable and rewarding as in previous years.”
The money raised by Ride+Stride will be shared between GHCT and local churches. You can take part as an individual or in a suitably social distanced group – as part of your local church or even with friends from work. In this unusual year GHT has taken steps to make it as easy as possible to take part. Visit www.ghct.org.uk/ride-and-stride to find out more.
In 2019, a record figure of £51,000 was raised to support local churches, and we know that for many the pandemic has meant reduced opportunities to fundraise, so supporting Ride+Stride is more important than ever. Remember, whether or not someone actually takes part, they can still support us by donating via the GHCT JustGiving page
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