Saddle up for the Bronte challenge (From Keighley News)

Saddle up for the Bronte challenge

3:13pm Thursday 6th September 2012 in News By Alistair Shand

Cyclists are being urged to saddle up for this year’s Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge.

And the Sunday, September 23, event, in aid of Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands, is offering riders a new route.

The Charlotte ride has been reduced in length from 31 to 26 miles, but now contains more off-road sections.

Representatives of the event sponsors Walkers Chartered Accountants and Aire Valley Cycles have met to check out a section of the new route – known as “the stairs”. Penistone Hill Country Park and part of the Pennine Bridleway near Widdop reservoir have also been added as technical sections.

Nicola Hudson, of Walkers Chartered Accountants, said: “We are delighted to be the main sponsor of the Bronte Bike Challenge once again and are hoping the exciting new route will encourage riders who haven’t tackled the challenge for a while to return.”

The challenge, which starts and finishes in Oxenhope, also offers two other routes – Emily, a 21-mile intermediate course, and Anne, an 11-mile ride for families and beginners.

Sue Ryder fundraiser Andrew Wood hopes the event, which attracts more than 200 cyclists, will raise over £10,000.

“This is a very enjoyable way to help Sue Ryder raise funds for its vital services,” he said.

“It’s also a nice touch that the three routes are named after the Bronte sisters, who were inspired by the countryside that the participants will be riding through. People can consider their ability and make their choice between Charlotte, Emily and Anne.”

Entry costs £25. For further details and online entry, visit brontebikechallenge.org.uk.