SHCT Bike Ride - from the Bike Ride Chairman

In these uncertain times, and with so much competition  for sponsorship from other charities, I was expecting a big drop in the take up of our annual sponsored bike ride. Indeed the figures are lower than last year, but an incouraging number of people set out on a cloudy but dry day in September.

There is a loyal and hardy group of people who turn out every year to support their local parish church, or who continue to have a commitment to do something for our ancient and much loved churches and chapels. The money is still coming in, but we are not far off £ 140,000. I will pass on the final total in the new year.

Some churches have reported fewer visiting cyclists, but others say they have had more than ever.  St Mary's Ashfield had a large number calling in, but perhaps it was because they had  in 2011 received from the Trust a grant of £ 10,000, and they wanted in inspect the work done.

My thanks to all riders and their sponsors, and also to those who man the churches and welcome the visitors.If anybody would like to help by becoming a Local Organiser in your parish,  or a Friend of the Trust, do contact us.  

Please note in your diaries our next Bike Ride, Saturday 8th September 2012.

Many thanks to all and do join in the fun next year.

Patrick Grieve, Bike Ride Chairman. November 2011   

• Contact the local organiser of the church you are supporting, or indeed any church, obtain the Sponsor Form and a list of churches open, and plan your route .
• Persuade your family and friends to sponsor you, either per church or a simple donation .
• Do as much or little as you like. People are generous and supportive, and sponsors know they are helping a fine cause. 
• You get to see inside a number of beautiful buildings and discover their treasures, pass fields and woods and hidden byways. It is marvellous exercise. 
• Having collected the funds from your sponsors, give it to the Local Organiser, who passes it on the Trust. Half goes straight to the church of your choice, the rest is given as grants to churches for repairs or renovation, on application.