VOLUNTEERS across the area are preparing to saddle up for the Ride+Stride fundraising event.

The annual event, organized locally by Dorset Historic Churches Trust, asks people to cycle, walk or ride on horseback to as many local churches as they can.

The event is on Saturday, September 13, 10am to 6pm.

There is no official route and participants seek sponsorship to visit as many churches as they feel able to.

Money is split between Dorset Historic Churches Trust and the individual’s nominated church.

More than 300 churches in the county will be open throughout the day, some of which are not regularly open. They will be providing refreshments and a well-earned rest for hard-working riders and striders.

Volunteers will use the trust’s website to check the locations of each church and can download them to their phone or tablet.

Last year’s event saw £74,170 raised, with 183 parishes taking part.

Experienced riders will plot their route to keep off busy main roads and riders will be able use the Ride+Stride page of the Trust’s website to check the map locations of every church – even downloading them.

Simon Pomeroy, chairman of Dorset Historic Churches Trust, said: “This a great way for all the family to explore some of our wonderful local churches either on foot, by bicycle, wheelchair or on horseback whilst raising funds to support their local church and the important work that DHCT does across the county.

“We are looking forward to this year’s event and hope to see many people out and about enjoying the Dorset countryside on Saturday September 13.” Law firm Porter Dodson, with offices in Sherborne and Dorchester, is sponsoring the yellow T-shirts for the cyclists.

Contact event coordinator Anna Butler on 01305 260004, email anna-butler@hotmail.co .uk or visit dhct.co.uk.