AROUND 2,000 people of all ages cycled or walked the roads and tracks of Suffolk in aid of the Historic Churches Trust at the weekend.The 21st sponsored event in aid of the fund saw churches of all denominations open their doors to welcome the visitors.

AROUND 2,000 people of all ages cycled or walked the roads and tracks of Suffolk in aid of the Historic Churches Trust at the weekend.

The 21st sponsored event in aid of the fund saw churches of all denominations open their doors to welcome the visitors.

For many taking part it was a real family occasion with toddlers, parents and grandparents all playing their part in raising much-needed funds to help preserve the area's historic churches.

Although now a national event, the response in Suffolk is one of the best in the country.

Churches in large towns, villages, and even in the smallest hamlets, were all manned so that those taking part could record their visit on their sponsorship forms.

Last year the event raised £144,000 and organisers will be hoping to raise a similar amount this year so that vital repair work can continue on the historic churches in the county.

It was not only cyclists who were taking part as many people were happy to walk to as many churches as possible on Saturday.

A number of people also took the opportunity of giving their pet dog a healthy walk as they strolled between the churches.

Even if some people were feeling a little saddle sore or foot weary towards the end of the day it did not show as everyone kept smiling in what has become a popular annual event.