A KEIGHLEY brewery has teamed up with a hospice in a deal that could generate barrel-loads of cash.

Bridgehouse Brewery is stepping up its support of Manorlands through the new partnership, to provide mobile charity bars at events.

The company will supply stock, a licence and expertise, while volunteers from the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice will man the bar.

"It's a very simple formula which gives people having a celebration event the opportunity to benefit our worthy cause without it costing them a penny," said Andrew Wood, Manorlands' fundraiser for Keighley.

"Over half the proceeds from each bar will go towards our care in the local area.

"We are delighted to be working with the team at Bridgehouse Brewery, which has been supporting the hospice for years."

The bar made its debut at a wedding anniversary celebration last month (June) and although proceeds are still to be finalised, Manorlands is set to benefit by hundreds of pounds.

And three more bookings have already been made, including at the Aire Do music festival in Keighley next month and Keighley Show on September 5.

James Kelly, sales and marketing co-ordinator at Bridgehouse, said the brewery welcomed the chance to further cement its links with the hospice.

"We have always been a big supporter of Manorlands," he said.

"We are proud to be associated with – and assist – our local Sue Ryder hospice in this opportunity to increase funds for and awareness of such a worthwhile and important part of our community.

"We hope our expertise and knowledge will help increase the number of events that Manorlands is able to attend this year and with the help of hospice volunteers, we are hopeful we can make a real difference for years to come."

Manorlands was made an honorary cask sponsor at last weekend's (June 26/27) Airedale Beer Festival, staged by the brewery.

The event was held in the grounds of the Airedale Heifer at Sandbeds, where Bridgehouse – currently based in Aireworth Road – is building a new brew house.

Anyone wishing to book the Manorlands bar should contact Mr Wood on 01535 640176.

Manorlands provides care to people with life-limiting illnesses living across Airedale, Craven and north and west Bradford.

Every year the hospice has to raise over £1.6 million in donations to continue providing its specialist services.

Manorlands' community nurse specialists last year provided more than 2,795 home visits, nearly 200 people attended its day therapy unit and the bereavement team handled over 1,380 phone calls.