http://www.samhoughtonchallenge.co.uk/ The Sam Houghton Mountain Bike Challenge.
Cycled in aid of Cancer Research UK, in memory of Sam Houghton, a local rider who died of cancer aged 22.
In 2009 over £9500 was raised for Cancer Research while those taking part had a great day out.
The Challenge is a timed mountain bike ride starting and finishing at the Mill Yard, Staveley and covering the Longsleddale, Kentmere & Troutbeck Valleys and taking in Garburn Pass.
There are two races for different abilities, and families often take part. There is a Team prize as well as an individual prize.
If you wished, you could make a weekend of it - there are several B&Bs in the locality, and lots of shops if the wife/partner would rather not ride.
http://www.staveleymillyard.com/map.html Site map - follow the location link for directions.
http://www.starlys.co.uk/ Curry powders and spices shop - and a restaurant/take away to try!
http://www.friendlyfoodanddrink.co.uk/ Pickles and chutneys made on the premises.
http://www.moreartisan.co.uk/find_more.html Artisan bakery with award winning desserts (and sandwich shop).
http://www.hawksheadbrewery.co.uk/ Award winning micro brewery - try before you buy - but don't drink and drive!
http://www.wheelbase.co.uk/ Cycle warehouse and co-sponsors of the event.
http://www.wilfs-cafe.co.uk/ Well known throughout Britain - Wilf's Cafe.
So while charity is said to begin at home - it might well begin in Staveley Mill Yard if you fancy it.
IT IS UNLIKELY THIS EVENT WILL BE CANCELLED DUE TO ICELANDIC ASH!