Leather clad Bishop will lap-up Back to Church invitations

A Nottinghamshire bishop will be sliding into biking leathers and roaring round a motorcycle race track this week in preparation for his bike trip across the county later this month.

The Bishop of Sherwood, the Rt Revd Tony Porter, will take to the tracks for a spin in the fast lane tomorrow ( Friday 11th September) with ex-British sidecar racer, Tim Bradshaw, who will show him the ropes at Mallory Park racetrack in Leicestershire.

The special day has been organized by local clergyman and motorbike enthusiast, the Revd Anthony Giles, from Woodborough, who will also be joining them on the track at 12noon.

Photo opportunities: There will be opportunities for photographs and interviews at Mallory Park Race Track on Friday 11th September 2009 at 12noon.

Later this month, the Bishop will join the bikers again on the back of the bike on Monday 21st September, when he will travel from Southwell Minster to Chetwynd Barracks with a special delivery of invitations for soldiers. (Photo opportunities and full details to follow)

Tim Bradshaw, who is also a Territorial Army officer, will take the Bishop to the barracks, where he will have chance to meet soldiers during a canteen break. He will receive a tour of the barracks with Brigade Chaplain, the Revd Steven Griffith and also see a demonstration from the bomb disposal team.

Bishop Tony said: “This year’s Back to Church Sunday on the 27th September is a special opportunity for people to invite their friends and neighbours to give church a go. Our theme for this year is ‘Come as you are’ and that’s the message I want to give to everyone whether you’re a soldier in uniform or a biker in leathers – everyone is welcome!”