A GROUP of bikers from Wotton and Dursley are aiming to ride around 1,100 miles to raise awareness about mental health.

The seven best friends are aiming to drive their Hondas and a Suzuki along the scenic route from John O’Groats in Scotland to Land’s End in Cornwall. 

The challenge will begin in John O’Groats on Monday, June 12. 

So far, almost £4,000 has been raised for the group’s chosen charities Mind and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled Association. 

A spokesperson for the group said: “In March last year, one of us lost a family member to suicide following a short mental health illness. 

“Individually, we have all experienced our own battles with mental health and recognise that unlike physical illnesses, mental health disorders continue to be stigmatised. This needs to change.

"Collectively, we want to be a part of this change, raise awareness and empower those experiencing mental health challenges to seek support."

Fundraiser Terry Willcox added: "Although this is not a physical challenge it is obviously from the nature of the machines quite a demanding one.

"We will be travelling at low speeds and obviously doing no motorways or main roads as little as possible, with very little backup facilities. 

“We decided to do this trip to create memories but also to raise funds for two charities that for one reason or another are very close to our hearts."

You can donate to the group's two fundraisers, here - https://tinyurl.com/5aud8xdb

Gazette Series: The motorbike fundraisers, from left to right - Terry Willcox, Jeremy Colburn, James Stevenson, David Gardner, Sean Clune, Darren Colburn and Mark BickertonThe motorbike fundraisers, from left to right - Terry Willcox, Jeremy Colburn, James Stevenson, David Gardner, Sean Clune, Darren Colburn and Mark Bickerton (Image: Terry Willcox)