The Revd Gill Alexander will be embarking on a cycling fundraiser for two historic St Cuthbert’s churches.

Ms Alexander, an Associate Priest at St Cuthbert's, is set to cycle approximately 250 miles to all other churches named after St Cuthbert in the Diocese of Newcastle.

Revd Gill AlexanderRevd Gill Alexander

She begins her Cycling Camino on September 7 in Haydon Bridge, finishing on September 14, the same day as the church's Harvest Market.

Ms Alexander's bikeMs Alexander's bike

Within the Diocese of Newcastle, there are 14 churches named after St Cuthbert.

The churches reflect the vital role of St Cuthbert as a northern saint and mark the Christian faith's history in the region.

The Haydon Old ChurchThe Haydon Old Church

They range widely, from those with Saxon and medieval origins, where Cuthbert’s body reportedly rested, to those built during the 19th-century industrial expansion.

Ms Alexander plans to complete the Cycling Camino by September 14Ms Alexander plans to complete the Cycling Camino by September 14

The funds raised will support a crucial campaign to re-roof the historic Haydon Old Church and allow significant improvements to St Cuthbert's church.

To donate, go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding.

The latter notably requires accessibility enhancements, including the addition of a toilet and kitchenette, to allow for greater hospitality.

Ms Alexander has a profound relationship with St Cuthbert's Haydon Bridge.

She served as curate there for several years, before a stint as Interim Minister, ending in May when Revd Ollie Dempsey was appointed.

She said: "St Cuthbert’s Haydon Bridge is an important space at the heart of the community.

"Its tower is part of the topography of the village.

"It was preceded by the 12th century Haydon Old Church on Haydon Fell which is thought to be a place where Cuthbert’s body rested.

"Both buildings have been a sign of God’s presence for centuries, however, they need substantial and urgent investment if they are to continue to serve the community into the future.

"The options to attract grant aid to support places of worship are limited and we will need to raise a significant amount locally."

 Haydon Old ChurchHaydon Old Church

The finishing line will be the St Cuthbert's Harvest Market at 10am on September 14.

The event will feature produce, arts and crafts, and various activities for children.

A raffle, tombola, homemade pies, cakes, biscuits, dog treats, and St Cuthbert's 2025 calendars will also be on offer.