RESULTS OF 2009 GIANT BIKE RIDE AROUND SUFFOLK’S CHURCHES

The money raised by over 3000 people who were involved with the Suffolk Historic Churches Sponsored Bike Ride on Saturday 12^th September 2009 cyclists has reached an amazing £166,390.

Over 600 churches opened their doors and met cyclists, walkers and those in disability buggies who were raising money to be shared between their chosen church and the Trust, which gives grants to churches, chapels and meeting halls so that they can be preserved for future generations.

“Although the amount raised is slightly down on last year’s total we did expect that to happen, with the recession affecting all charities,” said Patrick Grieve, chairman of the Suffolk Historic Churches Bike Ride. “It is a marvellous effort, especially when you think that many people taking part are not members of a church but just want to help to preserve the historic buildings that make our Suffolk communities what they are. Some of course, just enjoy a ride in the countryside!”

Walberswick nearly doubled the money they received this year and Great Wenham’s share went from £187 to £1044. There were also good increases for Beccles and for Clare Priory.

Included in those taking part in 2009 for the first time or after a break, were St Margaret’s, Lowestoft, All Saints church in Newmarket, Capel St Mary Methodist church and the parish churches in Sibton, Little Waldingfield, Brockford and Wenhaston.

“We would love every church in Suffolk to get involved next year and that even more people will get onto their bikes and into the countryside, or walk around the churches in their town,” continued Patrick Grieve. “This event began in Suffolk but has now spread almost country-wide. What we also need are people to act as Area Organisers because some of the current volunteers have been doing the role since we began in 1982 and are now ready to pass on the reins.”

The Suffolk Historic Churches Sponsored Bike Ride for 2010 will be on Saturday 11^th September and is inter-denominational. Cyclists and walkers seek sponsors who undertake to pay an agreed sum of money for each place of worship visited by the cyclist between 9am and 5pm on the Bike Ride Day.

For more details of the Bike Ride click here.