NOTHING could stop walkers and cyclists on their mission to raise money for Hampshire churches.

Saturday (SEP 13) saw the return of the annual Ride and Stride event, which challenges people to walk, run, cycle or drive around their local areas, visiting as many churches as possible in one day.

Participants collect sponsorship which is donated to Hampshire and the Islands Historic Churches trust, raising funds for vital repairs and upkeep to the county’s churches.

Last year saw £53,000 raised, including £2,716 for Winchester Cathedral – the most of any in Hampshire.

Canon Richard Lindley led the 12-strong cathedral team in this year’s effort, and said they hope to beat last year’s total.

“I’m delighted that people of such a variety of ages, from 90 down to about 40, take part,” he said.

The group walked nearly 16 miles, taking in 45 churches on route.

Hampshire Chronicle:

Ninety-six-year-old Susan Cook (pictured above), of St Swithun Street, was among them. She said: “I’m not letting it [age] stop me from doing Ride and Stride.”

Lindey Bradley, 70, of Constable’s Gate, has suffered from Parkinson’s disease for the past 15 years and joined the group on her mobility scooter. She said: “I think it’s very important to maintain these lovely old buildings.”

They were joined by Matthew Renshaw, Marilyn Avenell, Hiko Takedo, Ann Gildersleve, Lynda Price, Joanna Pope, Colin Roe, Christine Allen, and Lorna Atwell, wife of The Very Reverend James Atwel, Dean of Winchester.

Over 100 churches in the county took part, including 34 in Winchester and the surrounding villages, 23 in Alresford and around, 19 in Bishop’s Waltham and around, and eight in Eastleigh and Southampton.

Half the money raised goes to the HIHCT, and the other half to a church of the participant’s choice.

The total raised is still being counted.

For more information go to hihct.org.uk.