Rutland's Pedals and Pounds: A Community Spirit Preserves Historic Churches
Rutland's Pedals and Pounds: A Community Spirit Preserves Historic Churches
On Saturday, September 13th, 2025, Rutland was buzzing with activity for the bi-annual Ride and Stride. This special event saw participants travel across the county, using their chosen mode of transport to visit Rutland's beautiful and historic churches.
The sun shone for most of the day, creating the perfect backdrop for this community effort. Church recorders and dedicated bakers were on hand, ready to welcome participants with a warm smile and, for many, some delicious homemade cakes.
Cyclists were out in full force, ranging from individual riders to a determined team of six from Market Overton who started at 7 a.m. and managed to visit all 64 churches, cycling over 200 kilometers in the process! Others, like Beverley Hancock, the Secretary and Acting Treasurer of RHCPT, took on the challenge on foot, walking to an impressive 18 churches.
But it wasn't just bikes and walking boots. The event showcased some truly unique ways of getting around. Simon Forster from Ketton took his 1949 Ferguson tractor for a spin, visiting Tinwell, Edith Weston, and North Luffenham. The High Sheriff of Rutland, Col Richard Chesterfield, rode his motorbike to 62 churches, while the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness, toured eight churches on a Discover Rutland electric bicycle. Another unique participant, Joshua Davis from Egleton, combined his journey with a musical performance, playing the organ in every church he visited.
Dr. Sarah Furness, who is also the President of RHCPT, saw no better way to celebrate Rutland Day than by supporting the preservation of its historic churches.
"Thanks to all who raised funds to preserve these important buildings," the Lord-Lieutenant added. "In Rutland, we have really significant historic churches punctuating our beautiful countryside. They are an important part of our culture and heritage." She also extended her gratitude to all the volunteers who welcomed participants, offering them a place to rest, refuel, and enjoy some of those delicious cakes.
Since 2023 The Ride and Stride event has raised over £23,000 for RHCPT, providing vital grants for the restoration and repair of the county’s historic churches. While the final amount raised this year is still being tallied, it is clear that the community's efforts will make a significant contribution to preserving these cherished places of worship for future generations.
If you'd like to support this cause, you can still donate. Simply visit the Good Hub fundraiser page for Ride + Stride Rutland at
