A POPULAR charity bike ride which has raised more than £100,000 for good causes could be stopped in its tracks unless a new sponsor can be found.

The annual Stokesley Charity Cycle Ride has been held since 1998 and last year generated £5,615 for the Holistic Cancer Care Centre at the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

In previous years the event, which attracts a field of than 300 riders to tackle a 30-mile route through North Yorkshire, has raised money for Zoe’s Place, Butterwick Hospice and Yatton House in Great Ayton, among others.

But this year’s event may be in jeopardy unless a sponsor willing to help meet crucial costs cannot be found.

The event is due to take place in May, in aid of the Herriot Hospice Homecare in Northallerton, but the loss of the usual main sponsor - the Co-operative Membership Group - has prompted an urgent appeal for a local business or organisation to step forward.

Organiser Paul Mackintosh, of Darlington, said: “The Co-op has been an absolutely tremendous support over the years and I would like to thank them for all they have done.

“The ride is extremely popular and we urgently need somebody to come forward and provide sponsorship which would help meet the logistical costs, as well as those of refreshments, T-shirts and certificates for riders. Of course, the sponsor’s logos would be added to the official ride clothing and certificates.

“It would be fantastic to hear from anybody interested as the event has always been successful in raising money for some fantastic causes and I very much hope it can continue in the future.”

Anyone interested can call Mr Mackintosh on 07801 143942 or e-mail paulmack1@ntlworld.com