Ride+Stride 12th September 2020
Ride+Stride is an annual event that raises money for the Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT). It has always taken place on the 2nd Saturday in September, and this year was no exception. You can cycle, walk, or horse ride between churches.
Cathy Neyland organised some of the cyclists this year who all belong to Lytchett Matravers cycle groups, and have frequently supported SMLM fundraising, in particular the Bell Restoration Project. Cathy has been a bellringer at SMLM since December 2016, and moved to the village with her husband Peter the following year.
Our 31-mile route took us to churches at Bloxworth, Winterborne Tomson, Anderson, Kingston, and Whitechurch, then Milton Abbas, Milborne St. Andrew, Bere Regis, Morden, and finally Lytchett Matravers. As expected, many of the churches were closed, but we were grateful for those that were manned, or had simply left out bottles of water.
Other cyclists taking part were James Parry, Beatrice & Peter Nicholls, Geoff Holland, and Gillian Dyer.
James Parry is a keen cyclist, and this was his second Ride+Stride. He also has an interest in architecture so was very pleased to be able to combine hobbies with raising some money for DHCT.
Beatrice & Peter Nicholls really enjoy taking part in the annual Ride+Stride. They value supporting the maintenance of such wonderful heritage that are Historic Churches. Of course, being keen cyclists it’s a great day out combining culture and exercise.
Geoff Holland is a keen cyclist and organises a weekly ride from the village. He is also trying to retire to enjoy his other hobbies of badminton, sailing, DIY, and gardening. Geoff is also part of the group that is currently tidying up the War Memorial area.
Gillian and Paul Dyer (unable to do the R&S due to toothache) lived in Lytchett from August 1979 – February 1985 and were active members of St. Mary’s and other village activities. Paul played for Lytchett Red Triangle. Felix, their first child, was born in 1980 and baptised at St. Mary’s. On moving to Bournemouth, they kept in touch socially with some of their Lytchett friends and were invited to join the local cycle group a few years ago, thus renewing and extending friendships on a more regular basis and their fondness for Lytchett Matravers.
£115 plus some gift aid envelopes was raised through donations in the church and £215 + £51.25 Gift Aid through the Just Giving page so well over £330 If anyone would still like to donate money the webpage. is: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lytchettmatraversstmaryscn
Other Walking Groups
Our Vicar did an interesting alternative this year – Stephen walked with Andy Bennett around the Benefice.
Sheila had Carolyn and Bob with her and went to Blandford and then beyond on the Railway Trail managing 8 churches.