A POPULAR charity challenge day has returned to the Yorkshire Dales for the first time in three years, raising a record-breaking total for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice.

The annual Coniston Challenge Day, which is co-organised by the hospice’s fundraising team and the Manorlands Challenge Committee, took place at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa on Thursday, July 7.

During the day 25 teams from businesses across Yorkshire took part in a variety of exciting activities at the 1,400 acre estate, including clay pigeon shooting, a Land Rover driving experience, archery and inflatable beach volleyball.

Together they raised £55,400 for the Oxenhope-based hospice. This is the highest fundraising total that the event has raised in its 12-year history.

Harriet Wood, community fundraiser, said: "I don't think any of us thought we would be able to reach this staggering total - particularly with the current economic climate. The generosity that was highlighted throughout the day was incredibly humbling and goes to show how much appreciation there is for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice."

Louise Bolton, director at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, added: “Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice is a cause very close to our hearts, and we are incredibly proud to support this much-loved charity. We would like to say a big thank you to all that took part.”

Long-time hospice supporters who took part on the day included Yorkshire brewery Timothy Taylor's, OPM (Labels & Packaging) Group and R McDowell Haulage & Distribution Ltd. A number of new teams also joined in the fun including Ward Plane Ltd, networx Recruitment, NFU Mutual and R N Wooler.

Points were scored throughout the day and event newcomers Oak by Design came away with first place, followed by Olympus Print Group in second and The Coniston team who finished third.

Guests ended the day with a drinks reception on the terrace, followed by a Jubilee-themed quiz, raffle, and live auction, which alone raised £18,500.

Louise Bolton, Director at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, said: “What a brilliant time we had hosting the annual Coniston Challenge Day. Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice is a cause very close to our hearts, and we are incredibly proud to support this much-loved charity. We would like to say a big thank you to all the teams that took part, our activity providers and The Coniston team, as well as the Manorlands Challenge Committee, for putting together such a fantastic fundraising event!”