Thousands of pounds have been handed out to businesses from across west Suffolk and Thetford at the launch of a charity challenge.

Nearly 50 businesses were each given a crisp £50 note and thrown down the gauntlet to turn it into as much money as possible for St Nicholas Hospice Care.

The cash giveaway marked the launch of the fifth Towergate Accumulator Challenge, in which firms battle it out for three months with the hope of being crowned overall winners.

The launch on Thursday night was held at Victory Ground Cricket Pavilion, in Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, and hosted by event sponsors Towergate Insurance, of Newmarket Road, Bury, which donates all of the £50 notes.

Paul Whittaker, of Towergate Insurance, said: “It’s great to see so many people here – we are off to a really good start.

“When the challenge was set up we did it to raise some money and to ensure people have fun and that is the key to this event.

“So, here we go again for the fifth challenge. We want you to have a great deal of fun and enjoy it.”

Barbara Gale, St Nicholas Hospice Care chief executive, said: “Thank you for all your support, as we couldn’t do it without you.

“I can’t believe it is the fifth year of the challenge. We have raised lots of money over the years and the money that you raise is for hospice care in this area. We support people to try to have the best quality of life that they can, but we can only do that with your support.”

Firms taking part include The Coffee House, of Lawson Place, Bury; Asda, of Western Way, Bury; Glasswells, of Newmarket Road, Bury; Diaper Poultry, of Haughley New Street; Wild Tracks, of Kennett; Café Clare, of Clare; Brantano shoes, of Thetford, and Royal Mail, of Skyliner Way, Bury.

Abby Mayes, hospice corporate fundraiser, said: “The past four Accumulator Challenges have been really successful, but I have a feeling this year will be the best yet. Some of the teams have already let me know what imaginative events they have planned and it sounds like we are in for a fun three months.

“I can’t wait to see who comes out on top at the end of September.”

Prizes, in categories including overall winner, most innovative idea and outstanding teamwork, will be given out at the end of the challenge.

It is not too late for businesses to get involved in the challenge, which is supported by the East Anglian Daily Times and the Mercury series of newspapers.

For more information call 01284 715597 or email abby.mayes@stnh.org.uk