CYCLISTS are being urged to saddle-up in support of a hospice.

The 11th annual Bronte Sportive takes place next month, to raise funds for Manorlands.

Six routes are on offer – including the 93.1-mile Heathcliff, which is recognised as one of the toughest sportives in the UK.

Others – also named in tribute to the Brontes – are Charlotte (74.5 miles), Emily (50.3), Anne (29.2), Branwell (23.7) and Patrick (9.9). All start and finish at Keighley College.

There will be refreshment stops and water stations on each ride, run by volunteers from the Queensbury Queens of the Mountain Women’s Cycling Club.

All proceeds from the event – on Sunday, July 17 – will go to the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Each route will encompass Haworth Main Street and cyclists have the option of a timed hillclimb challenge in tribute to Chris Mitchell, who received care from Manorlands before his death in 2018.

His widow, Miki, who works in the hospice’s fundraising team, said: "Before he passed away, Chris suggested that I should join the Queensbury Queens cycling club to try something new and keep myself busy. I was convinced I wouldn’t enjoy it, but I went along to give it a go and I’ve never looked back! The Bronte Sportive was one of the first cycling events I did with the group and the fact that it now pays tribute to him is truly special.

"We really are extremely grateful to all the cyclists and cycling groups who come along and take part in this iconic sportive. It is a fantastic event and the money really does make a big difference."

Last year's Bronte Sportive raised £19,000, and organisers hope next month's event can exceed that – thanks in part to Sue Ryder’s long-term partner, All Terrain Cycles, which is sponsoring the extravaganza.

All entrants will receive a medal and the event will be followed by a barbecue.

A spokesperson said: "There is no obligation for participants to fundraise, but any money they do raise will help the hospice to continue providing expert palliative care, advice and support to people who are living with life-limiting conditions across an area covering Wharfedale, Airedale, Craven and parts of Bradford.

"Those who do not live locally can also take part, virtually, by completing their chosen distance anywhere in the world."

For further information and to register for the Bronte Sportive, go to sueryder.org/sportive.