ORGANISERS of an annual bike challenge in aid of Manorlands have hailed the event a huge success.

Around 260 people took part in yesterday's extravaganza, slightly down on last year.

But at least £7,000 is expected to be raised for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

The Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge – now in its 12th year – started and finished in the village.

There was a choice of routes, catering for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Anne, Emily and Charlotte rides – covering various distances and degrees of toughness – were offered as in previous years.

But also on offer this time was an 'extreme' route, labelled Heathcliff, taking in a gruelling 36-plus miles.

The event was sponsored by All Terrain Cycles and Colin Appleyard Ltd.

Andrew Wood, a senior fundraiser at Manorlands, said: "Although numbers were a little down, it was a fantastic day and we're delighted with how it went.

"The weather couldn't have been better – it was dry and sunny but not too hot.

"The new Heathcliff route seemed to go down well. That was certainly a good addition.

"The great thing about the challenge is that everyone can take part, whether a novice or an experienced cyclist.

"I would like to say a big thank-you to the teams from All Terrain Cycles and Appleyard's, who were present. Their sponsorship of the challenge is invaluable."

Pie and peas was served-up to the finishers and the Bridgehouse Manorlands bar was operating.

"The feedback we've received from people has been excellent – everybody seemed to have a good time," added Mr Wood.

"We won't know exactly how much has been raised until all sponsorship money is in, but it should be at least £7,000."

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.

* All photos by sportsunday.co.uk