CYCLISTS are gearing up for an annual bike ride challenge in support of Sue Ryder.

The 12th Bronte Sportive, which starts and finishes at Keighley College, takes place on Sunday, July 16.

There is a choice of five Bronte-themed routes.

The longest, at 98 miles, is the Heathcliff, which is recognised as one of the toughest sportives in the UK, alongside the Fred Whitton Challenge.

Also on offer is the Charlotte, at 79.1 miles; Emily, which covers 57.1 miles; the 36.4-mile Anne, and Branwell, at 21.1 miles.

Each route includes refreshment stops and water stations, run by volunteers from Queensbury Queens of the Mountain Women’s Cycling Club.

And all the rides, apart from the Branwell, take in Haworth's famous main street and include the option of a timed hill climb challenge in tribute to Chris Mitchell, who received care from Sue Ryder's Manorlands hospice at Oxenhope before his death in 2018.

His wife, Miki, who works with the hospice’s fundraising team, joined the Queensbury Queens of the Mountain cycling club when Chris was unwell and she says it has been "wonderful therapy".

She adds: "I enjoy cruising along in my own little bubble, thinking things through, but also chatting with other people and having a laugh too.

"I know first-hand how important the care and support that Sue Ryder provides is, and I would encourage everyone to dust off their bikes and join us in the Bronte Sportive so that we can raise vital funds and help the charity continue to be there when it matters."

Last year's event attracted 250 cyclists and raised £10,000.

A Sue Ryder spokesperson says: "This year it is hoped that the fundraising efforts will top the incredible 2022 result, thanks in part to our long-term partner All Terrain Cycles, which is sponsoring the event.

"There is no obligation for participants to fundraise, but any money that entrants do raise will help the charity to continue providing expert palliative care, advice and support for people who are living with life-limiting conditions.

"Those who raise £50 or more in sponsorship will be entered into a draw to win a prize donated by All Terrain Cycles.

"Those who do not live locally can also take part in the sportive, virtually, and complete their chosen distance anywhere in the world. Everyone who takes part will receive a finisher’s medal."

For more details about the event, go to sueryder.org/sportive.