A NEW partner is in the saddle for a major annual charity fundraiser.

Queensbury Queens of the Mountain cycling club has been unveiled as the latest backer of the Manorlands Bronte Sportive.

And the club’s involvement in the event has special meaning for one member in particular.

Miki Mitchell’s late husband, Chris, was cared for by Manorlands.

She approached the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice soon after her husband’s death to offer help as a ‘thank you’ to the staff.

Now Manorlands is the club’s charity of the year and members are rallying round to support the 2019 Bronte Sportive, which takes place on July 21.

They will help promote the event, assist on the day and join the other riders.

Also, a section of the course – which heads up Bridgehouse Lane and Main Street, Haworth – will be named in tribute to Chris.

Bronte Sportive participants can choose from one of four rides, all of which will incorporate the Chris Mitchell Hill Climb Challenge.

“Chris would have been so pleased at having the hill climb in his name,” said Miki.

“We were given excellent help, counselling and care at Manorlands.

“Sue Ryder enabled Chris to pass away at home with his family around him, surrounded by love. For this we are eternally grateful.”

Andrew Wood, the Manorlands-based Sue Ryder community fundraising manager, welcomed the backing of the club – which joins long-time event partner, All Terrain Cycles.

“We are delighted to have Miki and her friends at the Queensbury Queens of the Mountain club involved – we think they will make it very special,” he said.

“They visited the hospice for a launch photo and if their enthusiasm is anything to go by, we could be in for a record year of entries!”

The Bronte Sportive will start and finish at Keighley College.

The four routes on offer – catering for all abilities – are Anne, which covers 29.2 miles; Emily, 50.3 miles; Charlotte, 74.5 miles, and Heathcliff, 93.1 miles.

The Heathcliff ride, also known as the Bronte Monster, is recognised as one of the toughest sportives in the UK.

All riders will be chip timed.

Anyone raising £50 or more in sponsorship will be entered into a draw to win a prize donated by All Terrain Cycles.

For more details and to sign-up for the event, visit sueryder.org/brontesportive.

Further information can also be found at facebook.com/events/558558691326283.

Queensbury Queens of the Mountain was founded two years ago, for women from the area.

More about its activities can be found on Facebook, twitter and Instagram.