Businesses from Burnley and Pendle had a flipping good time at the launch of a fundraising challenge to raise the most money for Pendleside Hospice.

Representatives from 23 businesses met on Shrove Tuesday at Pendleside Hospice as they gear up for this year’s Corporate Challenge.

During the event businesses had the opportunity to find out more about what the four-month fundraising head-to-head involves, learn more about the services the hospice offers as well as enjoying a pancake breakfast.

Last year the challenge raised £97,016. This year hospice staff are calling on more businesses to sign up to help reach their target of £100,000 to mark their 30th birthday.

Each participating company will be given £50 donated by sponsor Charter Walk Shopping Centre in Burnley, which they have to try and turn into as much money as possible between 1st June to 30th September.

Last year Burnley and Pendle Slimming World took home the crown for raising the most money, raising £26,311, nearly double what they raised the previous year.

While the overall Corporate Challenge Champion Award and Team Spirit Award were presented to acdc for their continued effort throughout the challenge, including organising a sky dive, also had teams taking part in the Pendle Pub Walk, the Burnley 10k, and are taking part in Burnley Colour Dash.

Leah Crawshaw from Tailor Made Sourcing Ltd in Colne said: “This is the first time we have been involved in the Corporate Challenge, we’ve heard of the great work the hospice does for the local community and thought this would be a great way of giving back. By taking part in the Corporate Challenge we are hoping that it will also help us have a greater presence in the local community.”

All sponsor money raised will help to provide care for local people who are coping with a life-limiting illness at a time when they need it.

Fundraising suggestions include dress down days, bake sales, raffles or bag packing. Other ideas include entering into one of the hospice’s organised events such as the Pendle Pub Walk or Burnley 10k.

Christina Cope, fundraising manager said: “We are delighted to have had so many businesses come along to find out more about our third Corporate Challenge. So far 23 companies have signed up which is a fantastic start, but we would to have at least 30 on board to celebrate our 30th birthday with us.

“We will have more corporate networking events where people can find out more about the Corporate challenge the next one is Friday 27th April at Palazzo Italian Restaurant at 4pm for Pizza and Prosecco networking – please call me if you’d like to come along Tel: 01282 440103 or e-mail christina.cope@pendleside.org.uk.”

An awards event will be held on November 2nd where the winners from various categories will be announced.