Cycling Bishop Edward Condry has swapped four wheels for two again this Lent in a bid to raise awareness of climate change.

The 61-year-old Bishop of Ramsbury will continue to work full-time, travelling to churches in rural parts of Wiltshire.

This is the second time the Rt Rev Condry, who lives in Westbury Road, Warminster, has given up his car for Lent, saving more than 2,000 miles’ driving last year by cycling and using public transport.

He said: “I was surprised how much of a spiritual experience it was to give up the car, in a way that struggling to give up chocolate had never achieved for me.

“I can’t quite put my finger on why, but maybe it is as simple as having to change my life pattern and make an extra effort. Christians are called to care for God’s creation. Each of us must take our personal contribution to CO2 emissions seriously.”

This year he takes the challenge a step further by only eating locally-sourced food.

He said: “Lent should be a time when Christians make real sacrifices, following the example of Jesus Christ, who fasted in the desert for 40 days before starting his ministry.

“It’s also right that I do things that lead me to question my 21st century lifestyle that costs the planet.”

Rt Rev Condry parked his car keys on Ash Wednesday and will not drive again until Easter Sunday.

He said: “With Lent starting early this year, there’s a possibility of some really cold weather at the start.

“There will be moments when I’m cycling into a vicious wind on a busy A36 in the evening twilight that I’ll think I’m mad. On the other hand, you appreciate the slow arrival of warmer weather.

“We live in a world where instant communication can leave us feeling permanently harassed. Cycling gives me space to think properly and to pray deeply.”