Ride+Stride funding and trophy not stopped by coronavirus

This is the 60th anniversary of the Trust's formation and with the majority of the fundraising coming from the annual Ride+Stride, the charity is hoping this year's will still be able to take place in September.

The present restrictions on movements also prevented the Trust from presenting a trophy to St Mary’s Sturminster Marshall, as the church has made an outstanding contribution to the fundraising.

The Trust had planned a formal handing-over of the trophy by Lord Shaftesbury in May.

As a major conservation charity devoted exclusively to the county, the Trust plays an important role in helping these beautiful and historic buildings to continue serving their towns and villages.

Repairs supported recently include St Andrew’s Church in Preston, Weymouth, and St Peter’s Church Shaftesbury, both of which were granted £5,000 towards the cost of projects to repair stonework.

Similar plans at St Mary’s Sturminster Marshall, and at St Candida and the Holy Cross, Whitchurch Canonicorum, were granted £7,000 and £10,000 respectively. This incessantly wet winter has heightened the need for maintenance to ancient roofs and walls.

The Chairman, John Stokoe, commented:

“I am delighted that, in its 60th year, the Trust continues to make a vital and important contribution to Dorset’s historic churches which help to make our county attractive to so many people.”