A Somerset charity is calling on people across the Burnham-On-Sea area to dust off their walking shoes, oil up their bicycles or even saddle up their horse to take part in Ride+Stride, a fundraising event to raise money to protect churches and chapels across the area.
Ride+Stride 2018 is the flagship event of the year for the Somerset Churches Trust and is being held in Somerset and other counties across the UK on Saturday 8th September.
Supporters are encouraged to walk, cycle or even ride a horse between the participating churches and other Christian places of worship and raise money through sponsorship and donations.
The Somerset Churches Trust was founded in 1996 and over the last 22 years has given away more than £700,000 in grants to over 400 churches across Somerset.
Michael Auton, co-ordinator, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We are enjoying one of the driest and hottest summers for years. What better way to enjoy this weather than walking, cycling or riding through the beautiful Somerset countryside. On September 8th hundreds of people will supporting this event and we hope you will join us to make 2018 a truly special year.”
“Taking part could not be easier. You can walk, cycle or horse ride between churches in your parish or further afield. Decide how many churches you want to visit and plan a fun and interesting route between them. Are there any special historical sites or points of interest you could incorporate in your route to make it more interesting for your walkers or riders?”
“If riding or walking are not to your taste, run a special coffee morning, sale or fundraising event in your community on September 8th and help the Somerset Churches Trust support many communities across the county.”
In additional to supporting Somerset churches and chapels, Ride+Stride offers local people in the opportunity to support their local Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge community by keeping 50% of the money raised for their nominated charity or local group.
Michael adds: “We hope that other groups and organisations will support the Somerset Churches Trust to help make a real difference to the people and communities of Somerset. Please help protect our beautiful churches and come out to enjoy the wonderful countryside that makes Somerset so special to us all.”
153 churches will be opening their doors to welcome Riders and Striders. Local churches in the Burnham-On-Sea area include Badgworth St Congar’s Church, Biddersham St John the Baptist, Burnham St Andrews, East Huntspill All Saints, Highbridge St John, West Huntspill St Peter & All Hallows.
For more information about how to get involved in Ride+Stride go to www.somersetchurchestrust.org or contact Michael Auton by emailing michealautonconsutlancy@gmail.com.
