FORMER Dad's Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender hailed Suffolk's churches and chapels as he launched an annual sponsored bike ride staged to raise money for them.
FORMER Dad's Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender hailed Suffolk's churches and chapels as he launched an annual sponsored bike ride staged to raise money for them.
The actor even revealed it was the local church that convinced him to move to Woolpit, near Bury St Edmunds.
He launched the Suffolk Historic Church's Trust's annual sponsored bike ride in his home village yesterday.
“I came to live in Woolpit after I saw the church,” admitted Mr Lavender. “Churches and chapels are a vital part of Suffolk's architectural heritage and must be kept in good order.”
Mr Lavender appealed for people to get sponsorship and join him on the bike ride on September 9.
Over the past 25 years, the event has raised £3million and grants have been awarded to more than 60 churches.
Ray Bedwell, bike ride organiser, said: “The money raised is split between the host churches and the trust to give out in grants.
“And a good time is always had by all, which is evident as some people have done it every year since the bike ride began.”
Participants, which also include walkers and wheelchair users, are sponsored for the number of churches they visit.
Anyone who would like to find out more about the bike ride or take part in the event should contact 01502 567166.
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