Walk, cycle or volunteer to support Leicestershire's historic churches
People across Leicester and Leicestershire are being encouraged to take part in a ‘Ride+Stride’ fundraising event this weekend and help preserve some of the area's most treasured historic buildings.
Organised by the Leicestershire Historic Churches Trust, the Ride+Stride event, on Saturday 12 September, invites people to walk or cycle between churches while raising sponsorship money to support church repair and restoration projects.
Funds raised are used to provide grants to churches of all denominations, maintaining and protecting buildings that are an important part of local heritage and community life.
The annual event also gives people the chance to explore churches and heritage sites while supporting the Trust’s conservation work.
Janet Arthur MBE, chair of the Leicestershire Historic Churches Trust, said:
"Ride+Stride is our foremost annual fund-raising event, and we’re very grateful for the continued support of local communities who take part. In 2024 and 2025, Ride+Stride raised more than £40,000 in both years – so that is our target again this year – with the money shared between churches and chapels nominated by sponsored participants and the Trust.
“Around 300 churches and chapels are participating, and it’s not too late to get involved, either by walking or cycling between churches on Saturday, or sponsoring those who have already signed up.
“Ride+Stride is open to cyclists, walkers, joggers, runners, and mobility scooter drivers. You can pick your own route and take part for as long or as little as you want on the day. We will use the funds raised for grants to churches and chapels for vital repair, restoration and improvement projects.”
Leicester City Council's historic environment team supports churches and other heritage buildings across the city, as well as conservation and heritage projects such as the Greyfriars townscape heritage initiative, which has helped to transform Leicester’s Old Town.
City mayor Peter Soulsby said: “As well as raising important funds for the Leicestershire Historic Churches Trust, Ride+Stride is a wonderful way for people to discover the rich heritage of our local churches. We believe these important buildings should be preserved for future generations to enjoy, and every pound raised helps to support vital repair and conservation projects. I hope that lots of people will be able to support this great event.”
Participating churches will be open from 10am until 6pm on the day. For more information, a list of churches taking part, and lots of ways to sponsor or be sponsored, visit the website at www.lhct.org.uk/ride-and-stride-leicestershire
LCC News - Published on Thursday, September 10, 2026
