Members of a Shipley-based hospice support group are inviting walkers to step out across the sands at Morecambe Bay to raise thousands of pounds for a worthy cause.

The rare chance to walk across the bay - led by the Queen's Guide to the Sands, Cedric Robinson - is being offered by the Shipley Support Group for Manorlands.

Proceeds from this summer's eight-mile trek across the bay will boost the coffers of the Manorlands hospice at Oxenhope.

The event - due to be staged on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31 - follows successful walks over the past two years, each of which have generated almost £5,000. Organisers hope to raise a similar amount this time.

Places will be strictly limited to 200 and, because of the tide timings, the three-hour walk will set off at 11.30am sharp.

Those taking part will be asked to collect sponsorship pledges or make a donation to Manorlands.

Amy Booth, secretary of the support group which raised more than £11,000 for Manorlands last year, said: "This is a rare opportunity because there's only one guide who is allowed to do this and he can only walk when the tides are correct.

"It's something that should never be done without the guide - there are patches of quicksand on the bay but he knows exactly where they are and does a recce before each walk.

"Every penny that we collect goes to Manorlands, which is very well used by the local community and cares so well for those unfortunate people who develop cancer.."

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