MORE than 400 cyclists tackled a tough route in aid of charity.

The fifth annual Mountain Bike Challenge was organised by the 1st Holme Valley Scouts.

Yesterday's 28-mile trip started at the Bay Horse Inn at Hade Edge and took in rough terrain around Yateholme Reservoir, Holme Moss, Digley Reservoir, Meltham, New Mill and Hepworth.

The trip is to raise cash for the Scout troop, but teams often raise sponsorship for other charities.

Seven Holme Valley men tackled the gruelling challenge to raise cash for cancer sufferers.

The men, six of whom are in New Mill Male Voice Choir, raised more than £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Choir members John Senior, David Haigh, Ged Faricy, John Ibbotson, Andy Johnston and Barry Meeres rode, along with John Senior's brother, Richard.

Their effort was a tribute to choir secretary David Illingworth, who recently died of cancer.