The weather was warm, dry with a gentle breeze, and an excellent cycling temperature reaching about 20C. A really big difference to last year’s 29C, with only a light wind!

I opened Holy Trinity Church at about 9-15 AM, and then headed off to East Hendred. A total of at least 9 st/riders visited the church, with a large contingent from Grove in late morning.

Hilary Cakebread-Hall, of West Hanney who is the Ride+Stride County Coordinator, said “In general we have been encouraged by the number of participants this year, although as has always been the case some churches inexplicably get more or less than previous years. We were very blessed with the weather which I think helped!”

The money raised will be divided equally between The Oxford Historic Churches Trust and Holy Trinity Church West Hendred. We usually receive our portion in late December or early January.

OHCT have always been very supportive of us. Most recently, in February 2024 OHCT awarded a grant of £3,000 towards the new heating system, which was installed in May. We will shortly be applying to OHCT for a grant towards major work to re-tile the chancel roof.

Money continues to come in from sponsors. The total so far received is £452, with quite a lot more yet to come in.

Thank you to all who have sponsored.

Hugh Rees