MORE than 200 cyclists saddled-up for Manorlands' annual Brontë Sportive.

Organisers said they were delighted with the success of Sunday's event, which raised about £7,500 – up on last year.

Riders could choose from four routes, taking in sections of the course followed by the Tour de France Grand Depart competitors two years ago.

There was a 23-mile ride for beginners, which included Haworth's famous Main Street and Penistone Hill.

There were also more challenging routes of 54.5 and 71.5 miles.

And for those participants seeking the ultimate test, there was an 88-mile 'Brontë Monster' course, recognised as one of the toughest in the UK for sportive riders.

All the rides started at Keighley College, and sponsorship was provided by Saltaire-based All Terrain Cycles.

Manorlands-based Sue Ryder fundraiser, Andrew Wood, said: "The day went really well.

"We had 226 take part – an increase on last year – and there were no injuries or mechanical breakdowns!

"The fine weather also helped bring spectators out along the routes, which was great. There was a good atmosphere.

"I'd like to thank everyone who supported the event.

"And special thanks go to Tony Booth, of All Terrain Cycles, who went above and beyond what's normally expected from a sponsor and helped out on the barbecue!

"The Brontë Sportive is always a fantastic event and has become even more popular since the Grand Depart, with cycling enthusiasts from Yorkshire and beyond turning out to tackle what is a challenging but stunning route."

All proceeds from the Sportive, now in its seventh year, go to the Oxenhope hospice.

Manorlands also organises the All Terrain Cycles-sponsored Brontë Mountain Bike Challenge, which this year takes place on September 18.

More details can be found on the Brontë Sportive web page.

Manorlands supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families at the hospice and in the community, across an area covering Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale, as well as parts of Bradford.

All services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs £8,000 a day to keep the hospice doors open.

Only a small part of the cost is covered by statutory funds.

Most of the funds have to be raised through voluntary donations.

Visit sueryder.org/brontesportive for results from Sunday's event.