Couple cycled 1,000 miles for us!
They didn’t just cycle 1,000 miles for us. They also showed how anyone can do anything to help UK nature.
FORGOTTEN SPECIES
One of our board members Ann Stuart – along with husband Simon – recently completed their epic ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise funds for A Rocha UK and Synchronicity Earth. They’ve raised more than £7,500 so far and the fund is still open here.
After a couple of months’ training, the Stuarts (pictured) started their journey on 22nd July. They suffered the usual trials and tribulations for long distance cyclists – including sore muscles, severe weather over Dartmoor and non-existent cycle paths in the Somerset Levels.
But they also had chance to encounter many of the UK’s ‘forgotten species’ – such as sundew, orange hawkweed, hedgehogs, short-eared owls, red kite, furry brown caterpillars – and a weasel crossed the road in front of them!
There were other interesting moments, too – including the support team of their two daughters and boyfriends enjoying a rollercoaster ride at Blackpool and a puncture needing repair at the top of the stunning Wye Valley. They arrived in Cornwall on 10th August to a cream tea reception.
‘Thanks so much for all your support, prayer and encouragement along the way,’ said Ann.
A Rocha UK enjoys support from an impressive range of volunteers, just like the Stuarts. From the keen souls who show up early on a misty morning to ring birds and count dragonflies on our reserves – to the editor of our magazine – we couldn’t exist without you!
MOBILISE CHURCH
Across the country, A Rocha UK volunteers speak in churches, bringing to life the many connections between caring for God’s earth and the gospel. Simon Brown, who co-ordinates those speakers, is also a volunteer.
Could you spare time to help mobilise Christians and the Church to care for God’s earth? Whether your expertise looks like an acorn or an oak tree, we’d love to hear from you! And you’ll be relieved to hear you don’t have to pedal across the country to help us.