A SPECIAL charity challenge has been launched in support of the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.

Individuals, schools, groups and businesses across the Bradford district are being urged to get involved.

Lord Mayor of Bradford, Keighley Central councillor Zafar Ali, is challenging everyone to back fundraising events or organise their own.

Proceeds from the appeal are being split between two causes – Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands and youth homelessness charity Bradford Nightstop.

“Both these charities work hard in the district and provide a service that benefits different members of the community at a time in their lives when they really need it,” said Cllr Ali.

“Bradford Nightstop provides a safe bed at a moment’s notice for young people who for whatever reason find themselves without one.

“And Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice and its community nursing team cares for adults with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

“Between them they are ready to look after anyone in the district should the need arise and so I urge people to support these two wonderful, local charities.”

Outstanding fundraising individuals and organisations will receive awards and be invited to a celebratory event at the end of the mayoral year next April.

Cllr Ali, with his appeal committee, is currently working with both causes on a series of civic events to coin-in cash and raise the profiles of the charities.

Upcoming activities include a ‘teddy mayor’s picnic’ at Cliffe Castle Park in Keighley on Bank Holiday Monday, August 27, from 2pm to 4pm.

The picnic is being hosted by appeal mascot Brad Bear, and the Lord Mayor himself will be present.

There will be music and games.

Squash, a sandwich and packet of crisps will be provided to everyone, but people are invited to take their own picnic requirements too.

There is a charge of £10 for a family of four or £3 each, with all proceeds going to the charities.

People are asked to sign-up online before the day by visiting bit.ly/2vfTr2L, then choosing the Lord Mayor’s Appeal and stating your ticket requirements.

Andrew Wood, a Manorlands-based Sue Ryder fundraiser, said: “The Lord Mayor is very keen that people from all different communities within Bradford district get involved in the appeal and we are asking people to run their own events.”

Joy Rainbow of Bradford Nightstop, said the appeal team particularly hoped that people and organisations which don’t currently support either cause would get on board.

She added: “People might want to organise a dress-down day, complete a hike or swim or run a coffee morning, but we have lots of other ideas should they need them!”

For more details and to get involved, e-mail emma.walker@bradford.gov.uk.