As the 175th anniversary of Victorian Nature Writer Richard Jefferies’ birth approaches on November 6th, the Volunteer Director of the Richard Jefferies Museum, Mike Pringle, embarked on a spirited 175-mile cycling challenge from Swindon to Brighton.
Stopping off at lots of places on the way Mike plans to explore the countryside and wildlife and really try to understand just what is so special about our natural world.
Talking about his challenge, Mike says “Cycling this far each day, I seem to be creating my own natural WD40 sap, as my legs and my wheels keep turning. My snippets of Nature in the urban jungles I have been through spark my heart.”
For live updates on Mike’s journey and Jefferies’ legacy, check out Richard Jefferies Museum’s Facebook and Mike Pringle’s Facebook.
Throughout the summer, to mark Jefferies’ 175th anniversary, supporters have also been exploring the trail, visiting the nine homes where Jefferies once lived.
This commemoration of Jefferies’ ecological impact doubles as a fundraiser for a modern Community Extension to the Museum. Mike, drawing inspiration from Coate Farm’s original cowsheds, envisions a space for diverse community and cultural events.
Tony Hillier, Swindon’s Community Poet and Museum Supporter commented, “Swindon is rightly proud of this outstanding initiative – in all weathers – that Mike is taking on – on top of his nearly 15 years as Volunteer Director and hands-on worker/manager in our town’s award-winning Community Museum of Nature.
“The year-round, twice-weekly Nature Tots, the 30 Summer Sunday Cream Teas, and the Steam Engines are just some of the legendary public events at the Museum.
“This fundraising is to literally build on, and develop, the cultural services Richard Jefferies delivers. Please consider supporting (if you are able to) by making a donation, Thank you.”
To support the cause: Visit the Just Giving Page – 86% of the £3,200 target achieved at the time of writing.
