By Francesca Coleman
A BELL-RINGER has completed a journey across Somerset on horseback to raise money for St Mary Magdalene Church in Taunton.
Annie Suddaby rode 150 miles on a horse named Gypsy, alongside her sister-in-law Jo French and with the help of Little Meadow Riding School.
The pair set off on their trip over three weeks ago and rang more than 51 church bells during their adventure.
The trip was organised to help raise money for the Taunton branch of Bath and Wells Diocese Association of Change Ringers in their efforts to replace old and damaged bells at the church in Taunton.
The ride has accumulated huge support from communities; even Gypsy the horse was kindly donated after Annie’s own was unable to ride after a bad accident.
Annie said: “It’s been a lifechanging event, the support has been amazing and everyone has pulled out all the stops to help with the ride.
“Little Meadow Riding School have been amazing and provided all of our transport when we have needed it.
“Despite lots of different factors we got through it all.”
The ride was organised by Pearl Jeanes, the education officer for the bell ringers in Taunton and the group made it to the end of the challenge on Tuesday afternoon (August 26).
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