THE Bishop of Swindon is preparing to cycle 172 miles in two days to raise funds for Christian Aid.

Dr Lee Rayfield will be joined by the Bishop of Ramsbury, Dr Edward Condry, for the challenge, which will see them visiting 16 locations around the county.

Their aim is to encourage support and awareness ahead of Christian Aid Week and reflect on the plight of the world’s hungry.

Bishop Rayfield said: “As well as the physical challenge, we are undertaking a pilgrimage of Wiltshire.

“This is a journey in solidarity with the poor around the world and a way of thanking and encouraging those who volunteer on their behalf every Christian Aid Week.”

The duo will start from Trowbridge at 8am Friday, April 12 and return there the following evening. Along the way, they hope to call in on Christian Aid supporters in Warminster, Mere, Salisbury, Amesbury, Pewsey, Devizes, Royal Wootton Bassett, Marlborough, Highworth, Cricklade, Chippenham, Malmesbury, Great Somerford, Swindon, Melksham and Bradford-on-Avon. Churchgoers in these places will provide them with much needed food and drink.

To sponsor their efforts log on to www.justgiving.com/bishopsonbicycles