Epic cycle ride in memory of friend

Esme Backhouse, 17, who lives near Boroughbridge, is cycling more than 200 miles in tribute to Jake Pirie, who took his own life in February.

Esme, who was a fellow pupil with 17-year-old Jake, is raising money for the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, a charity which works to raise awareness about depression.

“I was really good friends with Jake. He was a very special person who was passionate about sport, and we are dedicating the bike ride to him,” Esme said.

“Since he died I’ve learned about the fantastic work done by the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust to educate people about depression, particularly among young people, and I wanted to do something to help.”

She is due to complete her ride today and is joined on her bike ride by two other local friends. Gilly Thorne, 17, and Ben Collin, both 17, who are raising money for different charities.

To support her, people can donate via her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/EsmeBackhouse-minstertominster