A NINTH annual challenge day in aid of Manorlands raised a whopping £41,000.

Four-strong teams from several companies competed in activities ranging from 4x4 off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting to archery and target golf.

Firms represented included Keighley-based Timothy Taylor's brewery, Barclays and OPM Labels.

Brook Taverner, which has sites in Keighley and Huddersfield, was the overall winner.

The event – which culminated with a hog roast supper and drinks – was hosted as usual by the Coniston Hotel, at Coniston Cold.

Tribute is paid to the hotel owners, Michael and Ethne Bannister, and staff for donating their time and facilities.

A team of over 20 from the hotel further boosted funds for Manorlands by taking part in a Yorkshire Three Peaks walk last month, which raised more than £5,000.

The total coined-in by the Coniston Challenge Day, plus the walk, since it was first held now stands at over £350,000.

Rachel Cunningham, head of fundraising at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice, said: "The Coniston Challenge Day is an absolutely fantastic event and would not be possible without the support of the hotel, the estate's activity providers and the Keighley Manorlands Challenge Committee, which helps with the organisation.

"We are also very grateful to all the companies that entered a team.

"It costs £3.3 million each year to run the hospice and £2.1m of that needs to be raised through voluntary income.

"The continued support of everyone means that we can carry on providing incredible care to our patients and their families, both at the hospice and in the community."

Louise Bolton, director at the Coniston Hotel, said feedback following the event had been outstanding.

"The Coniston Challenge Day is always a great opportunity to raise money for this worthy cause in a superb location – with fantastic facilities and a range of exciting activities," she said.

"Many of the teams present on the day are regular corporate or leisure guests who trust us with their reward, recognition and team-building events.

"Regular guests commented that this had been the best-ever Coniston Challenge Day!"

For information about entering a team in next year's event, e-mail rachel.cunningham@sueryder.org.