An energetic team of cyclists from St Elizabeth Hospice jumped into the saddle today to launch a workplace challenge.

Ipswich Star: From left, Karen Trickey, Woolly and SJ Middleton. Picture: GREGG BROWNFrom left, Karen Trickey, Woolly and SJ Middleton. Picture: GREGG BROWN

The group of staff from the charity set the pace of 19.34km for other businesses taking part in RideFest to beat over the next two weeks.

Each corporate team will try to top that distance during a 30-minute stint on a static bike. The score is taken from the participate who cycles the furthest.

The winners will be invited to the finals to compete for the coveted yellow jersey on March 1 at Trinity Park.

SJ Middleton, corporate fundraising manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “Each team will be raising money in sponsorship while taking part in RideFest and this money will be used by the hospice to support patients living with a terminal illness and support their families too. Just £45 could help cover the cost of a bereavement therapy session to help someone who has recently lost a loved one.”

Ipswich Star: SJ Middleton gives it her all for RideFest and St Elizabeth Hospice. Picture: GREGG BROWNSJ Middleton gives it her all for RideFest and St Elizabeth Hospice. Picture: GREGG BROWN

There are a limited number of places still available in the RideFest workplace challenge.

Anyone wanting to find out more or sign up their business should contact the hospice via fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk or call 01473 723600.

Ipswich Star: Riding for RideFest is Karen Trickey. Picture: GREGG BROWNRiding for RideFest is Karen Trickey. Picture: GREGG BROWN