The annual Suffolk historic churches bike ride has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds over the last 40 years - but has there ever been a more colourful troop of riders than the clowns taking to the county's lanes next month?

Over recent years the annual event has been expanded to welcome walkers and even drivers - but pedal-power remains at the heart of a fund-raising effort that first took place in 1982.

Volunteer Area Organiser for the Colneys Deanery (Felixstowe and Woodbridge), Ian Angus, has persuaded a team of six cyclists to dress up for their cycle ride.

Two of them, Anton Zinchuk, from Levington and Patrick Angus, from Shropshire, surprised Ride and Stride chairman, Simon Ronan, as they took a training ride near Hemley Church.  

Ian said: “I thought it would be an eye-catching bit of fun on the day and wanted to show Simon in advance what we are planning.

“The clowns are planning to ride to all the Colneys Deanery’s churches, and they are raising money for all the churches, who can sponsor the clowns. 50% goes to the Trust but the other 50% goes back to the church which donated it.” 

More than 500 churches across the county will be open to welcome walkers, cyclists, and vintage and veteran cars.

Last year, the September event raised a record £200,312.70, which is being given in grants to Suffolk historic churches, chapels and meeting houses who need to make urgent repairs or improvements to their buildings. 

On Suffolk Churches Ride and Stride Day, half the money participants raise goes to the Trust, and half to their chosen church, after they get sponsored on their journey around some of Suffolk’s churches, choosing their own route, long or short. Those on mobility scooters and electric bikes are also welcome. 

On the same day, Suffolk Churches Pedal & Drive, a vintage and classic car rally, is held with cars travelling a provided route, around a selection of churches, meeting up in the afternoon in Lavenham. 

The annual ride, which began in Suffolk in 1982 but has now spread across England, appeals to families, local history lovers, keen cyclists and walkers, church supporters and those who just enjoy a day out around the villages and towns of Suffolk.