Melsonby man has raised more than £3,500 for a local mental health charity after completing a challenge to visit 100 Yorkshire landmarks on a classic Vespa scooter.
Martin Vickerman, a trustee of Darlington Mind, spent several months travelling around the county on his Vespa as part of the fundraiser.
His journey took him to 100 of Yorkshire’s best-known and most scenic locations, while raising both money and awareness for mental health services.
After completing the challenge, Martin was welcomed back to The Black Bull in Melsonby by family and friends.
The fundraiser has so far brought in more than £3,500 for Darlington Mind, which incorporates Mind in Hambleton and Richmondshire.
Martin said the challenge had been motivated by concerns about suicide rates, particularly among men and in the North-East.
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.”
The money will be used to support Darlington Mind’s work providing mental health services to people across Darlington, Hambleton and Richmondshire.
Marcus Hawthorn, strategic development manager at Darlington Mind, praised Martin for combining his interest in Vespa riding with raising awareness of mental health.
He 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.”
The charity said the challenge had also helped encourage conversations about mental health and tackle the stigma which can prevent people from seeking support.
