The annual fundraiser event Rutland Ride and Stride took place on Saturday 13 September, raising almost £30,000 for Rutland's Historic Churches. 

Throughout the day, participants were challenged to visit as many of the county's churches in one day through their chosen mode of transport, raising £29,408. 

Participants were awarded for taking part in Rutland Ride and Stride 2025 (Photo: Rutland Ride and Stride)

The award ceremony was held on Saturday 8 November, where the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness recognised 23 participants with awards. 

John Williams was awarded the Davenport Cup for visiting the most churches on the day. There were also winners for the greatest number of churches visited by walking, quirkiest mode of transport, youngest and oldest participant. 

Youngest participant awarded to Hayden Thongphay (Photo: Rutland Ride and Stride)

Cyclists who visited 35 churches or more were awarded certificates, as well as walkers who visited at least 16 churches. 

The Lord Lieutenant thanked participants, saying: 'In Rutland, we have many historic churches across our beautiful countryside. They are an important part of the county's culture and heritage, at the heart of communities. 

'Thank you to all who gave up their time on the day, to welcome Riders and Striders. 

'Special thanks must go to this year's winner of the Davenport Cup, cycling for St. Nicholas, Pilton, visiting an amazing 52 churches on the day – this year's winner is John Williams.' 

Winner for most visited churches John Williams (Photo: Rutland Ride and Stride)

Tim Arguile and Peter Coulson both walked to 19 churches on the day, while Beverley Hancock walked 20 miles between 18 churches. 

A certificate was also presented to Simon Forster for the quirkiest mode of transport, driving a vintage tractor between churches, and 19-year-old Josh Davies, who played the organ at 12 of the churches he visited. 

The youngest rider was 14-year-old Hayden Thongphay as youngest Rider, and oldest rider 81-year-old Richard Adams. Richard was also praised for never missing a Ride and Stride – he was the first recipient of the Davenport Cup 30 years ago. 

A special award was also made to Rutland Historical Churches Preservation Trust trustee Sue Thomas to thank her for her hard work organising Rutland Ride and Stride for many years. 

The event raised £29,408 in total, which will be used to award grants for restoration and repair of the county's historic churches and chapels.