The second national Cathedrals Cycle Route Relay concludes in Newcastle this Sunday following a 2,000-mile circuit of all 42 Church of England Cathedrals.
They think it’s all over … Cathedrals’ Cycle Route Relay ends this Sunday
The cyclists are expected to arrive at Newcastle Cathedral around midday to a welcoming party of clergy, Cathedral staff and members of the public.
This year’s relay set off from Newcastle Cathedral on Monday 6 June, coinciding with the start of Bike Week, Cycling UK’s annual celebration of all things cycling.
Since that time over 200 cyclists- young and old – have joined in, handing on the specially commissioned bronze baton from one cathedral to the next.
The route saw its inaugural launch last year raising funds for mental health charities, and this year, cathedral teams have been raising funds for Alzheimer’s UK, Cancer Research and other local good causes.
One of the cyclists arriving back at Newcastle Cathedral is Shaun Cutler, the author of the Cathedrals Cycle Route which he designed to help us all out of lockdown with opportunities for short cycle rides between cathedrals, new partnerships, and fundraising for activities to support physical and mental wellbeing.
Shaun said:
“It’s been a true relay this year! It really has been a collective effort, with a great spirit of togetherness amongst the cathedrals and cyclists.
“The last few years have seen a lot of change, the Cathedrals Cycle Route is a great way to rediscover and reconnect, supporting people’s mental and physical health and promoting the mission of England’s cathedrals through pilgrimage, wellbeing and heritage.”
The Most Revd and Rt Hon Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, has endorsed the project:
“I think it was a fantastic idea that Shaun had in linking up all our wonderful cathedrals in a cycle route.
“Showcasing the architecture and worshipping communities, raising money for charities and those in need, as well as keeping fit – what’s not to like!”
The Cathedrals Cycle Route is a unique partnership between the Association of English Cathedrals and Cycling UK, with the support of Sustrans, the British Pilgrimage Trust and Northumbria University.
Sarah Mitchell, Cycling UK’s chief executive says:
“Riding the unique Cathedrals Cycle Route is a fantastic option. This collection of carefully curated routes run across England, offering incredible views of the countryside, and connecting cathedral cities.”
Find out how you can take part in the Cathedrals Cycle Route here.
