Hundreds of cyclists and walkers visited churches across Suffolk on Saturday as part of the annual Suffolk Churches Ride and Stride event.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Dean of St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Thomas Shavu, visiting from Tanzania, take a break from riding and cadge a lift in the rickshaw to their next stop. Picture: BURY ST EDMUNDS RICKSHAWThe Dean of St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Thomas Shavu, visiting from Tanzania, take a break from riding and cadge a lift in the rickshaw to their next stop. Picture: BURY ST EDMUNDS RICKSHAW (Image: Archant)

More than 500 places of worship opened for the event, which raises tens of thousands of pounds.

“It was another lovely day and we would like to thank everyone who has taken part, and the volunteers who sat in churches to welcome the riders and striders,” said Patrick Grieve, chairman of Suffolk Churches Ride and Stride.

Money raised will be divided equally between the Suffolk Historic Churches Trust, which gives grants to churches, chapels and meeting halls so that the buildings can be preserved for future generations, and the participants chosen church.

Towns across Suffolk saw even more walkers taking part this year. Last year just over £160,000 was raised.

East Anglian Daily Times: Cyclists Mike and Sheila Norris from Wickham Market, met walkers Marian Peskett and Pat Carter from Leiston, in Felixstowe. Picture: SHCTCyclists Mike and Sheila Norris from Wickham Market, met walkers Marian Peskett and Pat Carter from Leiston, in Felixstowe. Picture: SHCT (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: Bella the dog walked around Felixstowe churches to collect her sponsorship money of £84, helped by Margaret Bale and Edyth Banks, who were also sponsored. Picture: SHCTBella the dog walked around Felixstowe churches to collect her sponsorship money of £84, helped by Margaret Bale and Edyth Banks, who were also sponsored. Picture: SHCT (Image: Archant)