A HOSPICE is challenging its supporters to raise as much money as possible by channelling their inner entrepreneur.

The third annual St Leonard’s Hospice Accumulator Challenge begins on Saturday, February 3, and involves teams of up to six people from businesses, schools, organisations and community groups given a £30 loan to kick-start their fundraising journey.

Teams are then encouraged to use the £30 and any skills they have at their disposal to build up a huge total, with all proceeds going to the Tadcaster Road hospice, in York.

Annie Keogh, corporate fundraiser at St Leonard’s Hospice, said: “Forget Lord Sugar’s Apprentice, why not take part in the St Leonard’s Hospice Accumulator Challenge?

"Show them how it’s done.

“Not only is the challenge a great way to raise vital funds for St Leonard’s Hospice, it’s a fantastic team building exercise and offers networking opportunities with other like-minded people from the area.

“It also provides a stage for business-minded individuals and teams to show off their skills. So rally together your friends, associates and colleagues and sign up now.”

The challenge begins at 8am on the first Saturday of next month and ends at 6pm on Sunday, March 4.

All money is to be returned to the hospice before noon on Monday, March 5.

There will then be an awards ceremony to celebrate the success of the teams taking part.

Prizes will also be given to the team that makes the most profit, the most unique fundraising idea and the best overall performance of an individual team member.

The total raised last year was £24,572.67 with the winners, the York College ‘Business Bulldogs’, raising £3,410 alone.

For more information and to register a team, phone Annie on 01904 777 777 or e-mail annie.keogh@stleonardshospice.nhs.uk.