A YORK charity is challenging local people to take on an Apprentice-style challenge in February to raise vital funds.

The fourth annual St Leonard’s Hospice Accumulator Challenge begins on February 2 and teams are being encouraged to sign up now.

The challenge will involve teams of up to six people from businesses, educational establishments, organisations, community groups and more. Family groups and groups of friends are encouraged to enter too.

Each team will be given a loan of £30 and will then have 30 days to use the money to raise as much additional cash as they can, with all proceeds going to the hospice. Teams can raise money in any way they choose, as long as it’s safe and legal.

The challenge begins at 8am on February 2 and ends at 11.59pm on March 3. All money is to be returned to the Hospice before noon on March 4.

An awards ceremony will then be held to celebrate the success of the teams taking part. There will be prizes for the team that makes the most profit, the most innovative fundraising idea and the best overall performance of an individual team member.

Since the first challenge in 2016 teams have raised more than £51,000 towards patient care at St Leonard’s.

Annie Keogh, corporate and community fundraiser at St Leonard’s Hospice, said: "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.”

For more information and to register a team, phone Annie on 01904 777 767 or email annie.keogh@stleonardshospice.nhs.uk.