73 'riders and striders' raise over £23k with Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust

Prizes have been awarded to the youngest, oldest and quirkiest riders following a fundraising event which helped raise over £23,000 to support the maintenance and restoration of historic churches across the country.

The Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust, which helps preserve the wonderful medieval churches across the county, holds the Rutland 'Ride and Stride' every other year to help raise much-needed funds. 

This event took place in September 2023 when, on the hottest day of the year, 73 hardy souls set out on wheels or on foot to visit as many churches as they could in just one day.

Finally, on 17 March 2024, an awards ceremony was held at Thistleton Church to mark their achievements. 

After thanking all the participants, the Chairman of RHCPT, Peter Lawson, introduced Dr Sarah Furness, Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, who appropriately arrived at the venue on her bicycle, and Geraldine Feehally, High Sheriff of Rutland.

Dr Sarah Furness said: "We should be proud that the 'riders and striders' of Rutland generate more income per head of population than any other county.

"Almost every village and hamlet has a significant medieval church on which the population is centred. The role of the Trust is to help keep the fabric of all these buildings safe, secure and preserved for the next generations."

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Lily and Olivia collecting their prize from Rutland's High Sheriff. Image credit: Peter Lawson.

The 2023 'Ride and Stride' generated an impressive £23,400, which will support historic churches throughout the county.

The winner of the Davenport-Handley Cup was following in his late father's tyre tracks: Jack Hudson cycled to 47 churches and was riding in memory of his father John, who won the cup in 1997. Jack lives in Portugal and so his prize was collected by his mother, Debra.

Mary Stoat rode her unicycle to 23 churches, won a gift token for choosing the quirkiest mode of transport.

Lily (6) and Olivia (4) Howard-May, the youngest riders, cycled to 26 churches  Lily pedalled her own bicycle, while Olivia rode on the back of her dad's bike. They both won book tokens.

The next 'Ride and Stride' event will take place on Saturday 13 September 2025.

Congratulations to all involved.