Now’s the time to begin preparing for this year’s Bike ‘n Hike, which is organised by Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Historic Churches Trust for Saturday 10 September.
For the past 20 years, always on the second Saturday in September, cyclists and walkers have visited churches and chapels throughout Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire enjoying a day out and at the same time raising money for church restoration and repair.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to see some of the many ancient, unusual or modern places of worship throughout the two counties, opened specially for the day”, said Counties Organiser, Madeline Russell. “This year, we will have more than 600 churches and chapels available to visit, many offering refreshments and an opportunity to look at part of our wonderful Christian heritage.
“Anyone can join in but it is more fun to enter with a group. Work out your route and persuade your friends, work colleagues, or your local church congregation to sponsor you as you go, either with a single donation or per church visited. You can use JustGiving for the first time this year. Half the total raised can come back to your nominated church to help them, and the other half, with gift aid, goes to the Trust to help churches and chapels of all denominations in the two counties, with repair or restoration work”.
Last year’s Bike ‘n Hike realised just a few pounds short of £100,000 and organisers are hoping to exceed that figure this year. “The financial climate is difficult at the moment for many people, but the real climate, and the passage of time continues to affect ancient and modern buildings alike. They need regular attention if they are to remain important features of our landscape and townscapes as they have been for so many years” added Mrs Russell.
The Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust will supply publicity materials and sponsor forms - and a list of areas and churches which will be open on the day. It is all very well organised and good fun too!
More information can be found from your local church organiser, from the Trust’s website www.bedshertshct.org.uk or by e-mailing the organiser on bikenhike@bedshertshct.org.uk |
