BUSINESS have shown their support for a charity cycle ride in memory of a North Yorkshire Police officer who took his own life.
Mick Atkinson, 37, had been a police dog handler with the force for 17 years and had been off work with knee problems for 18 months.
He was days away from returning to work when he took his own life in October last year.
His friends and colleagues have organised a 'Tour De Aky' bike ride in his memory to raise funds for mental health charity Mind and the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, which aims to harness the positive powers of sport.
Yorkshire-based construction firm Harris CM is the main shirt sponsor for the ride and the company's Paul Taylor said: “We are proud to honour Mick.
"This will be a fantastic tribute to him, as well as raising a huge sum of money for two very deserving charities.”
More than 80 cyclists will take part in the 106.6 mile race, on Friday, June 14, from Scarborough Police Station to Headingley Stadium.
The distance was chosen specifically to represent PC Atkinson's collar number 1066.
The ride has been organised by Mick’s colleague and friend, PC Pierre Olesqui who said they had 'smashed' their initial fundraising target. He added: “The support this ride is generating is fantastic."
To support the riders, donate
here.
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