STAFF and volunteers from Kirkwood Hospice at Dalton are gearing up for Sunday's Examiner Charity Challenge.

Two horse riders, a cyclist and a walker will all be taking part in the event to raise cash.

Lottery officer Dawn Walker will be riding Ginger and fundraising administrator Melanie Crossley will ride Bella. Both are from the hospice's fundraising team.

Information technology technician Craig Wyatt will be taking part on one of the cycling routes. And David Jenkins, a hospice volunteer gardener will go for the six-and-a-half-mile walking route.

Events fundraiser Jane Dutton said: "We would be delighted if people felt that they could help the hospice by walking, cycling or riding one of the routes. Every penny counts in our efforts to continue to provide care for local people with life-threatening illnesses."

The hospice is one of a dozen named charities in this year's event at Meltham Sports and Community Centre.

Last year's event raised £40,000 for charity.

People can still turn up for the challenge and register on the day; the fee is £5. There is no charge for children under 16.

Events include: three-mile and six-and-a-half-mile walks; road bike rides over 27 or 48 miles and a 16-mile mountain bike ride; an eight-mile family bike ride; a nine-mile horse ride and a two-mile disabled, wheelchair and pushchair route.