Dorset Historic Churches Trust's Ride + Stride

Saturday, September 11 is the date for the Dorset Historic Churches Trust's (DHCT) Ride + Stride for Churches.

Hundreds of people from all over the county will cycle, ride their horses or walk to raise sponsorship to help maintain the fabric of historic Dorset church buildings.

DHCT has grant-aided maintenance work for churches and chapels of all Christian denominations in Dorset for the past 60 years.

Total grants awarded over the last five years have averaged more than £110,000 per year. The priority has always been to assist with weatherproofing (roofs and stonework).

In recent years significant funds have been granted to assist communities to adapt their cherished church buildings for wider use.

DHCT's principal source of funds is the annual sponsored Ride + Stride around Dorset’s 300-plus churches and chapels. In 2020, nearly 165 parishes took part raising more than £112,000.

Half of the cash raised can be returned to the church raising it, or to another charity they nominate.

Many parish congregations are struggling to complete essential repairs after the lockdowns brought a halt to fund-raising activities.

Organisers say the Ride + Stride is an enjoyable way of getting out into the glorious Dorset countryside and making money for this worthwhile cause.

Regular rider Peter Williams, from Silton, who last year cycled to 45 churches and raised more than £500, emphasises that the event is “an enjoyable and inspirational experience.”

He added: "Some riders are very competitive. Many walkers, horse riders and cyclists find that a less-is-more approach is equally rewarding, particularly for those who make it a family affair.”

Through difficult times, churches remain important community hubs, especially in rural areas. DHCT distributes grants to help keep these buildings standing.

Most parishes have an organiser who can advise you how to get involved in the Ride + Stride.

Look at dhct.org.uk for more details.