Hundreds whizz down Ilkley Moor zipline from Cow and Calf

The event, Zip the Cow, saw 420 participants took to the skies over Ilkley at the weekend, supporting healthcare and bereavement charity, Sue Ryder.

Zip the Cow, which took place on Saturday, July 20, and Sunday, July 21, saw brave individuals walk up to the top of the iconic ‘cow’ at the Cow and Calf Rocks above Ilkley, before whizzing 270 metres down Ilkley Moor reaching speeds of up to 35mph.

Sponsored by Crag and Co accountants of Skipton and Bunton Plant Hire, the sell-out event saw 420 people from age 8 to 83 take on the exhilarating ride, generating vital funds for the charity which provides expert and compassionate palliative care and bereavement support, meaning Sue Ryder can continue to be there when it matters.

The award for top fundraiser was won by 12-year-old Nicky Wood who raised £3,000 in memory of his grandad Graham Staines, and the team award went to a group of eight women from the Wilsden WI who have raised approximately £4,400.

Andrew Wood, Community Fundraising Manager at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, said: “We hope everyone who took on Zip the Cow this weekend has come ‘down to earth’ from the high “It was wonderful to see families, friends and local businesses come together to have fun, try something new and share a truly memorable experience, all while raising funds for Sue Ryder.

“The event simply wouldn’t be able to go ahead without the support of the Riddlesden and East Morton Manorlands Fundraising Group, our brilliant sponsors, event partners, volunteers, and of course the intrepid individuals who bravely take on the challenge each year.

“We’d like to thank them for their support and generosity – it means the world.”

Next year’s Zip the Cow is now open for entries but be sure to ‘moove’ quicky to secure your space on the wire. It takes place on July 26 and 27, 2025.

For all the details and to sign up, visit sueryder.org/zipthecow