Details for the day
1 The ride and stride event forms part of the Leicestershire Historic Churches event but as you know I am asking people to join me on the day in memory of Ros this year. It would be very appropriate for those cycling to make a donation via the Just Giving page for Leicestershire Historic churches .www.justgiving.com/l-h-c-t ( its also on their website https://www.lhct.org.uk )
2 It is not just for cyclists and people DONT have to commit to the whole thing so there are some options for non cyclists on the day or for those unable to attend the whole thing.
3 We are going to assemble at Swithland church at 9.45 . Please note that parking is limited here. There will be some special bell ringing at Swithland and cyclists will aim to depart from 10.15 . Please encourage those who knew Ros to attend this part of the day
4 There are then 3 options for cycling or driving if you wish and these routes will take in various churches . The routesare below.In particular I would draw peoples attention to our mobile bell ringers who are ringing at 4 churches - their itinerary is attached and is a great option for drivers or riders for a 10 mile ride. Particular thanks to Richard Pawley for this and I think it is very rare for some of these towers to be used and I can guarantee some exceptional skill on display. In addition others may choose to make their own cycle route and a full list of the participating churches open can be found on the Leicestershire Historic Churches website.
5 The Old School Rooms in Rothley have been booked for the event from 12.30 - 3.30pm and we are going to serve afternoon tea ie scones and tea/coffee throughout . This will also coincide with the final bell ringing from 2pm - 2.30pm at Rothley church. Again I would encourage those not able to cycle to pop in at a time to suit as it all adds to the occasion.
6 For the die hards we will move on to the Woodies after the event concludes
I appreciate it s a busy time of year and their are lots of people away but can I encourage those who are able to attend at least part of the event and in particular to ensure that others are aware of it as social media as you all know is not my strong suit !! I would very much expect Ros's cheerful spirit to inform and inspire the day and make it a pleasant experience for all with a chance to share some memories.
Finally the car park on Fowke street opposite the church will be open throughout so can I encourage people needing to drive to choose to park there . It does mean that there is a 20-30 minute bike ride ride to Swithland but it means your car will be available at the conclusion of the ride !
My best wishes
simon
simon.taylor@gateleylegal.com)
Please find below details of the LHCT Leicestershire Historic Churches Ride. It will be held on Saturday 14th September starting from St Leonards, Swithland where there will be a special peel of bells in memory on Ros Taylor, finishing at Rothley Parish church.
The aim is to finish early afternoon. We are hoping to start at Swithland at 10am where possibly bellringers should send us on our way and then potentially ring again elsewhere ( perhaps Rothley on our return).
I am going to look into providing some refreshments mid afternoon on our finish and obviously for those still thirsty there will be opportunities for some liquid refreshment at the Woodies.
There will be 2 rides - a 40 mile one and a shorter one for those that prefer the shorter distance; but if people wish to go different routes that is fine.
Shorter: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/295124086 Longer; https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/305425687
It combines Ros's twin passions for both our beautiful churches and swearing at motorists when on her bike
The event takes the form of many of our local churches being open and welcoming cyclists so the 2 routes plan to maximise both the churches and our local scenery . The routes will accommodate everyone and all levels but a common lunch and 'high tea'( AKA pub finish in Rothley ). Those familiar with JHMT know the drill and how enjoyable these things can be but I want this first and foremost to be a gentle day and over competitive cyclists will pay a heavy toll at the bar.
There will be 2 rides - this is the longer ride;