I am doing my part to raise funds for a new heating system and improve access for Holy Trinity Church, Skipton by cycling the full length of the Leeds/Liverpool canal. In order to make this a challenge, I intend to complete the 128-mile journey in just One Day, starting and finishing between sunrise and sunset. This would have been reasonably attainable a few years ago, but now having become sedentary, turned 62 years of age, with various underlying issues and limited training time to achieve anything remotely close to the fitness level required, people who know me consider that this challenge is ‘beyond my reach.’

That said, the archaic Edwardian heating system is in worse condition than me; the underfloor pipes have crumbled away, leaving the Church extremely cold in winter and allowing the fabric of the building to decay alarmingly. So, we have no choice but to get on with it and this we want to do it in an eco-friendly way. We want to warm the Church, not the planet.

In total we need over £500,000 to go Carbon net-zero by installing a new electric boiler, Air-Source Heat Pumps and a network of new pipework and radiators. Understandably access and facilities can be challenging for some groups, given the ancient structure and layout. Therefore, there will be work to ensure inclusivity with new access features, toilets and fittings. This major undertaking will ensure this historic 14th Century building will remain for future generations, long after I have shuffled off this mortal coil.

For those who are not of a Christian nature, then please consider the fact that this building is part of your country’s heritage. Holy trinity stands at the top of our High Street, as it has done proudly for over 700 years. Not only is it an active place of worship but also a major source of outreach and a facility which hosts many music, cultural, civic and community events. It does our town proud and to let it demise slowly is not an option. So, in the words of Norman Tebbit I’m getting on my bike. Will you support me?