Pedal power challenge along Leeds-Liverpool Canal

Alex Townrow (14), Stephen Dixon and Steven Townrow who cycling the Leeds Liverpool Canal to raise money for the Brierfield Methodist Church.

They are planning to cycle the full 127-mile length of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal starting early today.

Steven Townrow and his son Alexander (14) will be joined by Stephen Dixon when they set off from Liverpool on the marathon journey to raise money for Brierfield Methodist Church’s roof appeal.

All worshippers at the church, the trio are also Burnley fans and will be sporting their team’s tops for the ride which they hope to complete by Sunday.

Their efforts are part of a massive project to raise thousands of pounds to replace the roof at the church in Colne Road.

A thriving part of the community, the church is used by groups in the town on a daily basis.

Steven Townrow lives in Reedley and is owner of Direct Products, Clitheroe. Alexander is a pupil at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Blackburn.

And Stephen Dixon lives in Burnley and works in computing. His wife Anne said: “The three of them have put a lot of effort into this ride. It is a massive challenge but we are hoping it will raise awareness of the appeal and encourage people to donate to the roof fund.”

Stephen and Anne are also donating profits from their cafe, The Bookstop in Rainhill Road, Barnoldswick, to the roof fund.

Money raised by the cycling trio will be divided equally between the roof appeal and Breast Cancer Care and anyone who would like to make a donation can do so online by logging onto www.everyclick.com/llccbikeride.

Cheques, made out to Briefield Methodist Church, can also be sent to 361, Colne Road, Burnley, BB10 2LB.