A TEENAGER undertook a 200 mile cycle ride to raise money for a charity which raises awareness about depression in memory of a close friend.
Jake Pirie, 17, from Thornton Steward, near Leyburn, died after being hit by a train at Northallerton station in February.
His friend Esme Backhouse, also 17, who lives near Boroughbridge, cycled from York Minster to Westminster Abbey in his memory raising £3,400 for the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust.
The trust aims to increase awareness about the signs and dangers of depression in young people.
Esme said: "I was really good friends with Jake. He was a very special person who was passionate about sport. So we are dedicating the bike ride to him.
"Since he died I’ve learned about the fantastic work done by the Charlie Waller Trust to educate people about depression, particularly among young people, and I wanted to do something to help.”
Marian Spain, chief executive of the trust, said: “It is wonderful that Esme is doing this for us.
"We know the shock and heartache this illness can cause. It is our mission to raise awareness of depression, reduce the stigma attached to seeking help and promote mental well being.”
Anyone who would like to support Esme can go to www.justgiving.com/EsmeBackhouse-minstertominster
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