LESS than a year ago Nick Mercer took part in a charity bike ride to raise money for disadvantaged children.

Now his friends will ride in his memory after he was struck down with an acute mental illness which led to his death.

This year's Yarnbury to Yarnbury ride - taking place for the fifth time - will raise money for two charities which help people going through difficult times. The Farming Community Network offers practical and pastoral support to help farming families through hard times The Inkwell Arts Centre provides art therapy for people experiencing anxiety and depression.

Nearly 90 members of Horsforth's Yarnbury RFC will get on their bikes and ride 90 miles to the village in North Yorkshire from where the club takes its name. The ride, on June 10 and 11, is being supported by Nick's friends and family.

A statement on the club's website appeals for sponsorship in memory of Nick.

It says: "The funds raised this year will be in memory of our much loved friend Nick Mercer, who we lost last year.

"Nick took enormous pleasure in taking part in each of the previous Y2Y charity rides. He was in his element enjoying the beautiful Yorkshire Dales under his own steam with old friends and new and always for a very worthy charitable cause. Little did he know, during the last ride in June 2016 that he would be struck within two months by an acute mental illness that would lead to his unfortunate death.

"This year the Y2Y cycle ride is being supported by Nick's friends and family to raise money for two charities that help to support people suffering like Nick. As well as the Farming Community Network the ride will raise funds for Inkwell Arts Centre which provides art therapy for those suffering from anxiety and depression. Nick was looking forward to embracing support from both of these charities and had certainly taken much comfort from ceramic and art sessions while he was ill.

Thank you so much for your support of the charities in memory of Nick."

Visit the Team Yarnbury page on JustGiving to donate.