A NIGHT under the stars is on offer as Manorlands counts down to a major fundraising event.

The Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice is promising a fun-filled family affair when it stages the Starlight Hike on September 3.

Participants will follow a 10km route around the Worth Valley.

"The hike is a great family event with plenty of entertainment and beautiful sights to keep everyone entertained," said a Manorlands spokesman.

"It is known for its team spirit and many people return year after year."

The evening will begin at Oxenhope Station, where there will be music, stalls, entertainment and a warm-up.

People will then board the Starlight Express – one of the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway's steam trains specially re-named for the night – and travel to Oakworth, where the walk will begin.

The hike will follow a marshalled route through Oakworth and Haworth and back towards Oxenhope, taking in the Starlight Avenue – within the hospice grounds – where participants can hang a star dedicated to the life of a loved one.

At the finish, walkers will receive a goody bag and hot sandwich.

Headline sponsor of this year's hike is Stirk Lambert & Co accountants.

Among past entrants taking part again is Emma Firth, who will be joined by her children.

"The route is fabulous," she said.

"It takes in lots of local landmarks and is not too challenging, making it accessible to everybody.

"More important though is the community atmosphere of everyone coming together to support a fantastic cause.

"And the magic of the Starlight Avenue brought home to everybody the reason for our efforts.

"We loved that aspect of the walk – the calmness and tranquillity that comes over you as you pass through the grounds is amazing.

"Most of us know somebody who has used Manorlands' facilities and are aware of the fabulous service it provides in our community.

"Everybody always speaks very highly of the staff and the support received."

All proceeds from the event go to the hospice, which costs £9,000 a day to run and relies heavily on public donations.

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.

Places are still available on the hike. Adult entry is £18.

To take part, or to volunteer help, contact senior fundraiser Hayley Ibbotson on Hayley.ibbotson@suerydercare.org or 01535 640431.