Local MP Robbie Moore given a breathtaking look at Keighley, the Worth Valley, Silsden, Steeton and Addingham from the skies following a charity gyrocopter flight.
The flight, donated by Straw Race Chairman Robin Wright, was part of a fundraising auction prize at the Oxenhope Straw Race Awards Night, raising vital funds for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice.
The Oxenhope Straw Race, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, has become one of Yorkshire’s best-loved community fundraisers, raising more than £500,000 for local charities since its launch in the 1970s.
Departing from Oxenhope International Airfield, the gyrocopter flew over some of the area’s most scenic landmarks, offering sweeping views of Brontë Country and the Aire Valley below.
Robbie Moore MP said:
“Without doubt, we live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country! A huge thanks to Robin Wright of Wyedean for very kindly taking me up in his gyrocopter for an incredible flight over Keighley, the Worth Valley, Silsden, Steeton, Addingham and far beyond.
Robin donated this experience and his time as part of the Oxenhope Straw Race Awards Night auction to raise funds for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, and I couldn’t resist bidding for it. It was an unbelievable experience and every penny went to Manorlands. A massive thanks to Robin for everything he does for our community, and please do get involved with next year's Straw Race!”
The Oxenhope Straw Race, which originally started as a light-hearted farmer’s wager in the 1970s, sees competitors run between pubs carrying a bale of straw, stopping for pints along the way. This year’s golden anniversary event saw a record turnout, with Olympic triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee among the participants, dressed in a memorable Donald Trump costume.
For more information on the Oxenhope Straw Race and upcoming fundraising events, visit: facebook.com/OxenhopeStrawRace
