Latest News Parishioner completes 25-mile pilgrimage run to raise funds for new church heating system Update: Wednesday 19 March From Richard: I started at 6am in Leek and all went well, arrived in Buxton about lunchtime. It was nice and sunny but cool and frosty up on the summits. The stop at St Joseph's shrine was a much-needed respite from the incessant wind. It is so peaceful there and I encourage others to go along and visit. Also the water at St Anne's well was a very welcoming sight! I have a few aches but nothing a few days rest won't sort out. Thanks for everybody's encouraging messages and kind sponsorship so far. Photos from Richard's Run A parishioner is in the final days of training before taking on a 25-mile pilgrimage run in the Peak District. Richard Howell, who worships at Holy Trinity in Newcastle-under-Lyme with his wife and daughter, is taking on the hilly terrain challenge to raise funds for a new heating system at his church. He will be pounding the route from St Mary’s in Leek to St Ann’s Well in Buxton - incorporating Gun Hill, Shutlingsloe and Shining Tor in the Peak District, and St Joseph's Shrine - on Tuesday 18 March. Richard is hoping to raise much-need funds for the church, which needs to replace the entire heating system having recently had the roof repaired. “The whole parish has been excellent at pulling together and coming up with fundraising ideas in order to help pay for this but we still have a long way to go,” said Richard. “The heating is important not only to create a comfortable environment for Mass, but also to help keep the building free from damp. We will be celebrating the bicentennial of the Church in a few years so it's our duty to maintain the building in good condition for the next generation. “I wanted to do something to help as one of our parish priests, Fr John, always encourages us to roll up our sleeves and get to work. So I thought I would try something that I enjoy doing but would also be worthwhile and challenging at the same time. “St Joseph teaches us to look after our Church and families, so I dedicate the challenge in honour of him (on the eve of the Solemnity of St Joseph). “There is also a Shrine to St Joseph on the route, so I will stop in there to pray for the protection of our families, parishioners and churches in the Archdiocese and of course everyone who has kindly sponsored me.” Richard added: “If I survive this one, maybe it could become an annual pilgrimage and others could join me next time! “Many people have already given very generously and I am very grateful. I hope whatever little we can raise together will help to contribute in a small way while at the same time hopefully inspire others to take on their own challenges and pilgrimages especially during this pilgrimage year of hope.” Please sponsor Richard Below: The terrain facing Richard Manage Cookie Preferences