People are being urged to turn to pedal power to boost Manorlands’ coffers

Organisers of the Oxenhope hospice’s annual Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge are seeking entrants.

About 250 people took part last year, together raising £12,000.

But so far, fewer than 100 have registered for this year’s event on September 22.

“We are a bit behind in terms of numbers, but last time we had a surge before the early-bird offer expired,” said Andrew Wood, a Sue Ryder regional fundraiser based at Manorlands. “We usually get a flurry of entries.”

The challenge, launched about nine years ago, caters for cyclists of all abilities by offering a choice of three routes.

All are signposted and there will be refreshment points.

Charlotte is a 26-mile, extreme course, which includes moorland terrain and the notorious ‘stairs’. Riders head to Worsthorne and return via a new section of the Pennine Bridleway.

Emily provides an intermediate, 21-mile route over the moors to Widdop and Wycoller, returning via Stanbury.

And for beginners and families, there is a guided route – Anne – which covers 11 miles, mostly on minor roads. It takes in Haworth, Cullingworth and Harecroft. Younger children are welcome to take part, but under-11s must be accompanied by an adult.

All this year’s rides start and finish at Oxenhope recreation ground, where there will be refreshments and a bar in the community centre. A free hot meal and water will be provided to everyone at the end.

Keighley-based Walkers chartered accountants is once again the event’s main sponsor, and Aire Valley Cycles is sponsoring the start and finish area.

Entry for the Charlotte and Emily routes is £25. For Anne, the cost is £12 for individuals or £25 for groups of up to five people.

Visit sueryder.org and click on Ride for Ryder, or contact Mr Wood on 01535 640176 for details.