The ride is in aid of St Mark’s Church, Caia Park which is celebrating 60 years since the consecration of its building. When the church was first formed it met in a community centre and worked hard to raise the funds for the building. Sixty years on and significant refurbishment work is required to ensure the church can continue to serve ‘The Park’ into the future. The area of Caia Park, formally known as Queens Park, has a strong community identity which strives hard against poverty and other social issues which affect many families. The need for a continued strong Christian presence to minister Christ’s love in word and deed is essential for the future.

The ride will visit all 9 Anglican churches which I have been able to locate in Wales dedicated to St Mark.

Starting from St Mark’s Caia Park, Wrexham following the Sunday worship service on May 29th, the first leg runs north-westward to reach the St Mark’s Church Connah’s Quay for tea before returning to Wrexham. Elaine will accompany me on this section and will provide back-up to Jonathan for the remainder of the ride. On Monday 30th, the ride heads southwest to reach St Mark’s at Brithdir near Dolgellau. This church is not currently used for worship and is in the care of Friends of Friendless churches. It is a notable Arts and Crafts style church with pews of Spanish chestnut.

After an overnight stop in the university town of Aberystwyth, the ride continues to follow Cardigan Bay to reach St Mark’s, Gwenlli, just beyond the junction at Synod Inn. From there I go southeast through hilly West Wales country to reach St Mark’s Cwm Coch, close to Cross Hands and the end of the M4 motorway. After a second overnight stop, I make for the capital city, largely following the old A48. This will bring me to St Mark’s Gabalfa. This distinctive church was built over fifty years ago to replace the original Victorian building which was demolished to make way for the Gabalfa interchange, an impressive road on three levels created to relieve Cardiff traffic jams. I worked here for 2 years as a ‘curate’ and still have friends in this church who will provide accommodation.

The next day, I will continue east to Newport and St Mark’s Goldtops, before the long trip back north. The next stop will be St Mark’s Llanhilleth near Abertillery. The final overnight stop will be in mid Wales before the last church of the ride is visited, St Mark’s Ysfa, a tiny church near Nantmel between Rhayader and Crossgates. From here the ride will conclude back at St Mark’s Wrexham on Friday evening.

Thank you for your support.