BUSINESSES across the borough are being urged to compete in a bake-off to raise money for Bolton Hospice.

The hospice will hold its fourth annual bake-a-thon on October 16 and 17, during National Baking Week, and has a limited number of places available.

Each team of aspiring bakers must choose one cake to be put forward and judged.

The team which wins this competition will be crowned Bolton’s Best Baking Business.

Stephanie Lacaille, community fundraising manager for the hospice, said: “From bake sales with friends, to dinner parties where only baked delights can be served up, to cake eating competitions at work, there are numerous ways you can take part in this fun appeal whilst at the same time supporting your local hospice.

"We really would love you to be part of our bake-a-thon once again this year.

“What better way to raise money than to have a catch up with friends, family or work colleagues over a piece of cake?”

Last year, Asons solicitors won the bake-a-thon with their Ferrero Rocher cheesecake.

They will be taking part again this year to defend their title.

Justin Richards, senior content executive at Asons, said: “We’re always enthusiastic about supporting local fundraising and here at Asons we absolutely love baking and eating cakes.

"We’re delighted to once again be involved in the charity bake-a-thon to support Bolton Hospice, and our employees will be baking their very best to help raise funds for the charity.”

Anyone who signs up will receive a fundraising kit which includes recipes, competition ideas, and bunting to decorate their venue.

It costs £400 per hour for Bolton Hospice to provide its services and it needs to raise the first £300 of this every hour of every day of every month.