THREE ministers from the West Devon Methodist Circuit walked around 90 miles in five days, visiting every church in their circuit.
The Rev Philip Wagstaff, the Rev John Peak and the Rev Doreen Sparey-Delacassa decided it would be a good idea to visit all of the 22 churches which make up the circuit. But instead of going by car it was decided to walk.
Having arranged the route, it was found the walk would be around 90 miles, starting at Northlew on August Bank Holiday Monday and finishing with a circuit service at Fairplace Church, Okehampton on the Friday.
Averaging 16 miles a day, the ministers were joined by many people en route and enjoyed many meals and refreshments at the different churches ? including breakfast, which made up for the early starts, Mr Wagstaff said.
Time was available to talk with members of the congregations and the people in the towns and villages which make up the Methodist circuit. Mr Wagstaff said it was helpful in exploring ways of developing and strengthening the work of the many chapels in the area.
After five days of walking he said all three ministers found an enthusiasm at all the churches and a willingness to explore ways of developing the life of the Church in the different towns and villages.
The ministers also appreciated the slower pace of the day than was usually the case for Methodist ministers, and were able to appreciate more fully the glorious countryside of West Devon, Mr Wagstaff added.