A MALTON-based charity is challenging people to take part in its sixth cycling event.

Ryedale Special Families' annual Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Challenge takes place over the weekend of July 16 and 17, and last minute entries are being urged to sign up.

The event is open to all levels of cyclists, with the challenge to cycle 144 miles in two days around the Yorkshire Wolds.

Riders leave Norton College early on the Saturday to tackle the circular route, which this year will follow a clockwise direction, returning on Sunday afternoon.

The event has become a major fundraiser for Ryedale Special Families, having raised more than £80,000 since it started five years ago.

Cyclists pay a £40 entry fee then commit to raising at least an additional £60 in sponsorship, or pay the balance themselves.

Among those taking part are the "Pink ladies" - Anne Marflitt, from Pickering, and her sister Elaine Richardson.

Anne said: “Last year I entered the Yorkshire Wold's Cycle Challenge with my sister Elaine who came over from Cumbria to do the ride with me. We had a wonderful weekend; the event was incredibly well organised by Ryedale Special Families.

"Even though it was a gruelling ride, we had no hesitation in saying we would enter the challenge again this year. Ryedale Special Families is such a worthwhile charity to support and we were proud to say that 'The Pink Ladies' raised more than £1,000."

Joanna Newitt, from Flaxton, is taking part in the challenge for the first time.

She said: "Dream of biking the Coast to Coast route, to build up my confidence I thought the RSF Wolds Challenge would be a goal to aim for this year, as I have never biked more than 10 miles until I started training.

"RSF being a local charity, supporting families with disabled and special deed children and young adults in the community. They were a lifeline for a close family friend, now it's time for me to repay their kindness by helping others too."

Organiser Rob Davies said: “Now in our sixth year the event promises to be just as good as previous ones. We’re up to 154 entries, so plenty of room for anyone still thinking about it.

"We’re constantly amazed by the efforts people go to and are extremely grateful for everyone who supports the event."

People have until Friday, July 8 to enter. Go to yorkshirewoldscyclechallenge.org.uk