Daredevils urged to take the plunge in support of Manorlands

Sue Ryder, the charity which runs the Oxenhope hospice, is staging its annual Zip the Cow event.

Participants walk to the top of the 'cow' at the Cow and Calf Rocks, above Ilkley, before descending 270 metres on a zip wire – at speeds of up to 35mph.

This year's event takes place over the weekend of July 20 and 21.

Last year, around 400 people – ranging in age from eight to 76 – took part, together raising £50,000.

Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Manorlands, says: "We see each year that Zip the Cow is a superb way for local families to come together and celebrate a loved one's big birthday or anniversary, or pay tribute to someone's memory.

"It's always fantastic to see people cheering, laughing and waving as granny flies through the air over their heads!

"We hope that this year's Zip the Cow will once again offer the opportunity for families and friends, clubs and workmates to share a truly memorable experience on their doorstep, all whilst raising funds for a very worthwhile local cause."

Organisers say the zip is suitable for people of all ages, but entrants should weigh between 32kg and 111kg and be physically fit enough to walk a rough path to the top of the rock.

No training is required.

Everyone who takes part will receive a bespoke 'I Zipped the Cow' medal.

This year's event is sponsored by Crag and Co accountants, of Skipton, and one other joint headline sponsor place is still available – any businesses interested should contact Mr Wood on andrew.wood@sueryder.org

Entry to Zip the Cow is £27.50, and there is a minimum fundraising target of £50.

For further information and to sign up, visit sueryder.org/zipthecow

Other forthcoming Sue Ryder fundraisers include the Mascot Gold Cup, at Wetherby racecourse on April 28 – visit sueryder.org/mascotgoldcup for details.

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, but it costs over £10,000 a day to keep the hospice doors open.

Only a small part of the cost is covered by statutory funding.

Most of the funds have to be raised through voluntary donations.