Bishops hit the road for charity bike ride

Bishop Edward Condry in some last minute training before the big cycle

Two bishops have been putting in some last-minute training this week before their 172-mile bike ride for charity.

The Bishop of Ramsbury, the Right Reverend Edward Condry and the Bishop of Swindon, the Right Reverend Lee Rayfield aim to complete the mammoth cycle in two days.

The route will take them around Wiltshire and past 16 stops where they will raise awareness of Christian Aid Week, which runs from 12 to 18 May.

Church leaders, school pupils, mayors and council officers are among those who will meet with the bishops along the way.

Both bishops are keen cyclists and have been in training for months in preparation for the gruelling challenge.

Bishop Condry said: "I'm most looking forward to meeting all the people as we go round. Although perhaps on reflection I'm looking forward to finishing most."

Bishop Rayfield added: "Christian Aid has always been a charity close to my heart and raising awareness of their work while cycling around this beautiful county is a great combination. I just hope the rain holds off."

To sponsor the bicycling bishops, visit www.justgiving.com/bishopsonbicycles.

Follow the ride via #bishopsonbikes on Twitter.

related articles
76-year-old to cycle from Newcastle to London on behalf of world's poor

76-year-old to cycle from Newcastle to London on behalf of world's poor

News
A brief history of Christmas bans
A brief history of Christmas bans

These days, Christmas is hard to miss and nearly impossible to avoid. But at various times it has been banned in different countries, including Britain. This is the story …

Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact
Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact

Organisers of this year's Shine Your Light Christmas evangelistic outreach have been "overwhelmed" by the response from local churches.

Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone
Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone

People are being urged to reach out after polling suggested 1.8 million UK adults will spend Christmas Day alone, even though they do not want to.

Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church
Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church

For Christians sheltering in the Holy Family parish in Gaza, there will be few comforts this Christmas.