DORSET residents are being urged to ‘ride or stride’ to raise money for the maintenance and repair of the county’s historic churches.

Simon Pomeroy, chairman of the Dorset Historic Churches Trust, said the annual fundraising day, is vital for the future of such ‘marvellous buildings’.

Volunteers of all ages are gearing up to pedal for their parish at this year’s ‘Ride & Stride’ event, organised locally by Dorset Historic Churches Trust.

Participants are being invited to cycle, walk and even horse ride, to as many churches as possible on Saturday, September 14 between 10am and 6pm.

Last year’s event raised a record £60,923 in sponsorship, with 169 parish communities taking part.

Mr Pomeroy, pictured right, said: “The annual event is a great way for all the family to explore some of our wonderful local churches whilst at the same time raising funds to support your local church and the important work that DHCT does across the county.”

DHCT will split sponsorship between their nominated church and Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT).

Even churches that are not regularly open will welcome fundraisers on the day. These include the chapel in the grounds of Wolfeton House near Dorchester and the tiny pre-Reformation Corton chapel near Portesham.

More than 200 churches across towns and villages will be open throughout the day to provide refreshments and give the opportunity to explore.

Sponsors law firm Porter Dodson, with offices in Sherborne and Dorchester, will be giving out T-shirts to those taking part.

Money raised is the main source of income for the Trust, which last year helped 35 churches in need of repair and renovation, by awarding grants totalling £74,000.

For more information about the Ride and Stride contact Anna Butler on 01305 260004 or email anna-butler@hotmail.co.uk or visit the DHCT on dorsethistoricchurchestrust.co.uk