Riders and Striders all over Dorset are gearing up for the annual Ride and Stride for churches, which will take place on Saturday 10 September. Bikes are being oiled, boots cleaned, and tack polished ready to head out into the lanes and fields.
This sponsored event supports the Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT), a charity that exists to help the beautiful church buildings of the county. The need for financial aid to repair these listed buildings is greater than ever, with the rising cost of building materials and the need to employ the most skilled craftsmen to carry out such sensitive work.
Church buildings are as important in the towns and villages of the county as ever. Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York wrote recently that churches are “central to the vitality of the community… many people who are not part of the worshipping community feel passionate about church buildings.”
Chairman of the Trust, John Stokoe, said,
“It is really encouraging that so many people in the county support us. We hope they all have an enjoyable time keeping fit and raising money.”
DHCT is a volunteer-led organisation which raises and gives away and average of £100,000 every year, the great majority of this income being generated on one day each September at the Ride and Stride.
Many people are very generous with their time and their money. To join them, seek out your parish organiser or look at dhct.org.uk. You could enjoy a great day out in the country and see some lovely ancient and historic buildings on the way.