The Bishop of Derby, Dr Alastair Redfern, has published a video welcome to tourists visiting Derbyshire this summer on the Derby diocesan website (www.derby.anglican.org). Dr Redfern recorded the piece as millions of tourists will be pouring into the County this month with a high percentage of them visiting his churches.

“Historic churches across Derbyshire attract thousands of visitors each day and we want to remind everyone that these places represent the past and, in most cases, the present and the future. Many of our churches are flourishing, vibrant communities,” Dr Redfern said today.

In his You Tube piece, Dr Redfern says: “If you don’t visit the churches you won’t have discovered the heart of what Derbyshire is about.”
The Bishop continues: “I often cycle on the cycle route from Buxton to Ashbourne.  It must be one of the most beautiful places in the world….. You see agriculture at work, very close to nature and people just enjoying themselves.

He adds “There’s a sense of community.  It is safe for children and families to cycle.  You can hire bikes from the Peak Park Authority. We have a marvellous range of, not just high quality pubs, but some really superb family run restaurants in some of our market towns.”

“If you don’t visit the churches you won’t have discovered the heart of what Derbyshire is about.” He adds: “ People should just come, and be recreated.  It happens to me everyday.” 

Watch the clip here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MotkxHppNV0

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