We’re cycling 50 miles for our churches (From Essex County Standard)

We’re cycling 50 miles for our churches

8:00pm Friday 31st August 2012 in News By Clare Jeffs

CYCLIST Peter Mann is gearing up for his tenth marathon cycle ride in aid of the Friends of Essex Churches Trust.

The charity’s annual Ride and Stride on Saturday, September 8, will see hundreds of walkers and cyclists taking to the county’s roads to raise money for the trust’s work across Essex and East London.

Mr Mann, who is deputy warden at the parish church of St Edmund, King and Martyr, East Mersea , will join fellow church member Reg Green on a 50-mile route which will take them to nearly 40 north Essex churches.

Between them, the pair have raised as much as £4,000.

“The main reason we do it is because the churches need funds,” said Mr Mann.

“We have had lots of work done at East Mersea and the Friends of Essex Churches Trust has been helpful.

“Half of what we raise goes to the trust and half to our own churches.

“It’s an interesting day. It’s amazing the people you meet.”

Trust chairman Dr James Bettley said: “This annual fundraising event is always popular and it is important to our church Heritage .

“The Friends of Essex Churches Trust appreciates the commitment of all our supporters. Their efforts will help to keep the churches of Essex and East London in good shape.”

l There is still a chance to sign up for Ride and Stride, which coincides with this year’s Heritage Open Days.

For more information, including sponsorship forms, suggested routes and a list of local churches open on Saturday, visit www.foect.org.uk.