(Image: Supplied)
A Darlington charity trustee has gone the extra mile for mental health services after completing an ambitious challenge to visit 100 Yorkshire landmarks on his classic Vespa scooter.
Martin Vickerman, of Melsonby, who took on the journey to support Darlington Mind, which incorporates Mind in Hambleton & Richmondshire, raised £3,500 on the way.
He said: "Where we live, most men under 50 die by taking their own lives, and the highest suicide rate is in the North-East.
"Sadly, in Yorkshire, the rate of suicides has gone up over the last few years.
"So we need to talk, we need to raise money, and that was the purpose behind the challenge."
Mr Vickerman spent months travelling across Yorkshire on his Vespa, visiting well-known and scenic locations across the region.
He was welcomed back to The Black Bull in Melsonby by family and friends, celebrating the completion of his fundraising journey.
The money raised will help Darlington Mind continue delivering vital mental health support across Darlington, Hambleton and Richmondshire.
Read more
Darlington man launches petition for new law to tackle workplace mental health issues
Government announces new mental health centres in Darlington and County Durham
North East leisure centre colleagues raise £1,000 through swim
Marcus Hawthorn, strategic development manager at Darlington Mind, said: "We’re incredibly grateful to Martin for taking on such a unique challenge and using his passion for Vespa riding to raise awareness of mental health and much-needed funds for our local services.
"The money raised so far will make a real difference, helping us to continue supporting people in our communities.
"We’d like to thank Martin, as well as everyone who sponsored him and supported him along the way."