Bradford law firm Gordons has become the first business in the North to sign up for the Marie Curie Great Escape Challenge 2012.

The commitment means the firm, which also operates in Leeds, and its staff will raise thousands of pounds for the charity, which has a hospice in Bradford supporting people with terminal illnesses by providing nurses, conducting research and campaigning.

Three teams of four will take part in the challenge with each team aiming to raise at least £2,000. The challenge, held over a weekend in May, will involve 80 teams hiking, cycling and kayaking.

Brian Curran, regional corporate development manager with Marie Curie Cancer Care, said: “We’re hugely grateful to Gordons and hope their lead will be followed by other organisations. The challenge aims to build strong teams, develop core business skills and provide networking opportunities.”

Gordons’ Great Escape Challenge entry follows its announcement in September that Marie Curie’s hospice in Maudsley Street, Bradford, was its chosen charity.

John Holden, senior partner, said: “We’re delighted to be the first business to sign up for the Great Escape Challenge. Our staff being so willing also shows how attractive this particular initiative is – they think it’s an excellent idea and that taking part will be fun.”