THE friends of a former Bridgewater High School pupil who tragically died last year are cycling more than 180 miles to raise money in his memory.

Starting from Palmyra Square in the centre of Warrington next Friday, May 4, the group will start their three-day journey up to Newcastle for Mind – the mental health charity, in memory of Jonathan Rowlands.

The 45-year-old, originally from Grappenhall, was living in Newcastle, where he attended university to study chemical engineering and had met the group of friends more than 25 years ago.

Following a battle with depression, dad-of-one Jonathan, a commercial director, took his own life in September.

His mum Margaret, who now lives in Stockton Heath, said: "He was very well-liked, clever and popular.

"He was a big, six foot three man that kept fit and worked hard.

"It is difficult to know what was going on but I suppose we will never know."

Led by friend Andy Williamson, the team will take on the Ride the Rocket challenge to raise funds for the charity, who provide advice and support to anyone suffering with mental health problems.

The pledge target was originally set at £5,000 but, to date, more than £8,000 has been raised across the riders individual fundraising pages.

Donations can be made at justgiving.com/companyteams/jonrowlands