ORGANISERS of an annual cycling and walking charity event are encouraging residents to sign up to raise money for church restorations in the area.

The Annual Sponsored Bike ‘n’ Hike event is organised by The Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust.

For the past 20 years, on the second Saturday in September, cyclists and walkers have visited churches and chapels throughout two counties to raise money for church restoration and repair.

Counties organiser Madeline Russell said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to see some of the many ancient, unusual or modern places of worship throughout the two counties, opened especially for the day.

“This year, we will have more than 600 churches and chapels available to visit, many offering refreshments and an opportunity to look at part of our wonderful Christian heritage.

“Anyone can join in, but it is more fun to enter with a group. Work out your route and persuade your friends, work colleagues, or your local church congregation to sponsor you as you go, either with a single donation or per church visited.

“You can use JustGiving for the first time this year. Half the total raised can come back to your nominated church to help them, and the other half, with gift aid, goes to the trust to help churches and chapels of all denominations in the two counties, with repair or restoration work.”

Last year’s Bike ‘n Hike raised almost £100,000 and organisers are hoping to exceed that amount.

Mrs Russell added: “The financial climate is difficult at the moment for many people, but the real climate and the passage of time continues to affect ancient and modern buildings alike.

"They need regular attention if they are to remain important features of our landscape and townscapes as they have been for so many years.”

For information on the event, contact the church organiser in your area listed on the trust’s website www.bedshertshct.org.uk or by emailing bikenhike@bedshertshct.org.uk