Steve, 71, in the saddle for 100km church fundraiser

Steve Redshaw, from Claverley, has cycled 100km around Shropshire on Sunday to raise money for the Claverley All Saints Church, after a lack of fundraising over the past 12 months.

The 71-year-old loves cycling and hasn't been able to go out with his friends for the past year, but has taken on this challenge to keep himself busy and raise vital funds for the upkeep of the church at the same time.

He has raised nearly £3,000 from sponsorships so far.

"We live in Claverley and we have this historic church in the village which is under a preservation order and Grade I listed," Steve said.

"There is a registered charity called the Friends of Claverley Church and the idea behind it is to raise money for the upkeep of the church. The money goes towards the fabric of the church, not just utilities and things.

"But for the last 12 months they have not been able to undertake any fundraising activities.

"My wife, Ann, is one of the trustees for the group and at a meeting before Christmas – which was one of their last ones before lockdown – I said as there hasn't been any fundraising I would be happy to undertake a sponsored cycle ride in the spring time.

"Any money I raise will go directly to the church funds for the upkeep."

Steve said he needed to be mindful of Covid restrictions and the weather in his planning. His cycle took him through the Shropshire borders – travelling through Ironbridge, Broseley, Much Wenlock, Church Stretton, Craven Arms and coming back up to Bridgnorth then back to Claverley.

He added: "The church normally does three or four events each year to fundraise. so this is my contribution because they haven't been able to.

"Cycling is a hobby of mine. I haven't been able to ride with my friends for the past 12 months, but hopefully soon."

Visit friendsofclaverleychurch.uk for more information and how to donate.