PEOPLE are being urged to get on their bikes this summer in support of Manorlands.

An annual sportive and mountain bike challenge are being organised by the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice's cycle events group.

The Bronte Sportive, on July 15, will offer a choice of four routes – from 29 to 88 miles – catering for all abilities. Each will set off from Keighley College.

And the Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge takes place on September 16, from Oxenhope Community Centre.

It too will offer four route options, covering distances ranging from 15 to 35.1 miles.

Backing for the events is being provided by retailer All Terrain Cycles.

It is giving a bike-related prize to the winner of a free draw, in which all participants raising more than £50 through sponsorship will be entered.

Also, it will make a donation for each rider from the All Terrain race team who takes part in the events.

Over the years, Manorlands' cycling activities have attracted riders from across Yorkshire and beyond and raised thousands of pounds to fund the hospice's care.

Last year, a trio of events together coined-in £24,000.

This time the Three Dales Mountain Bike Challenge is not taking place, but Manorlands-based Sue Ryder fundraiser Andrew Wood hopes cyclists will instead focus on the other two.

"We're encouraging anyone who enjoys cycling to choose from one of our remaining rides," he said.

"We are looking forward to an even bigger turnout than last year for these two events, as the cycling community comes together to raise vital funds for the hospice.

"As ever, we appreciate the support of businesses like All Terrain Cycles which help to make these events such a success."

Tony Booth, managing director of All Terrain, said the business was delighted to once again be supporting the rides.

"This is the sixth year we've sponsored the Sue Ryder events," he added.

"They're fantastic rides, enjoying some of Yorkshire's most beautiful scenery as well as offering challenges for cyclists of all abilities.

"We hope that the chance of winning some cycling goodies will spur on participants to raise even more for this fantastic local charity."

For more details about the sportive, visit sueryder.org/brontesportive, or for the Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge visit sueryder.org/brontemtb.

Alternatively, contact Mr Wood on andrew.wood@sueryder.org or 01535 640176.