TWO top Merseyside business leaders have called on companies to take part in a major charity challenge.

Sir Michael Bibby, of Bibby Line Group, and John Syvret, of Cammell Laird, are rallying entrants for the latest annual Zero to Hero Corporate Challenge to support charity Fairbridge Merseyside.

The entrepreneurial challenge involves teams from regional businesses competing to turn £500 into £5,000 or more over four months.

The cash will go to Fairbridge Merseyside, which each year supports 200 vulnerable and disadvantaged young people, aged 13-25.

Last year, the event raised £60,000, with half contributed by the Cammell Laird apprentices’ winning team.

Businesses participating in this year’s challenge include: Bibby Financial Services, Cammell Laird, Barclays, Deloitte, RBS, Brabners Chaffe Street, Coutts, Addleshaw Goddard and Artemis Media.

Sir Michael Bibby, Bibby Line Group managing director and Fairbridge Merseyside committee chairman, said: “Everyone wants to raise as much money as possible for Fairbridge.

“But for this to be a big success we need the Merseyside business community to really get behind us.

“There are also many benefits for businesses taking part as it helps to develop team spirit, strengthens employee skills in project management covering marketing, sales, budgeting and implementation.

“Everyone involved has to work hard to compete. Let’s not forget, it is a competition we all want to win.”

John Syvret, Cammell Laird managing director, said: “Last year our apprentices did a great job in raising so much money, and everyone at the shipyard is delighted to be back on board in 2010.

“This challenge relies not just on the teams taking part, however, but on the support and generosity of other Merseyside businesses to keep this wonderful charity going.” Fairbridge Merseyside, which relies on donations and business support, needs £500,000 annually for its work.

Teams must devise fundraising events or a money-spinning idea.

Sir Michael added: “Fairbridge is vital to Merseyside and turns otherwise desperate lives around.

“This is why the Bibby Line Group and so many other prominent Merseyside businesses want to take part.

“It is also why we need the support of firms across the region.”

Jayne Wilson, Fairbridge Merseyside team manager, said: “All the money we raise on Merseyside is spent on young people in the region.”

Any company wishing to enter a team or get details should call Fairbridge Merseyside on 0151 709 5881.