A TEENAGER is challenging himself to the longest bike ride of his life in support of a charity that supports teenagers affected by suicide.

Harry Bond, 17, of Buckingham Road, Hockley will complete a 52 mile bike ride from the Olympic Park in Stratford to Priory Park in Southend.

Harry will be representing Papyrus for the event on Sunday, July 22, a national charity for the prevention of suicide in young people.

Harry has a close a friend who has been personally affected by the issue.

He said: “My friend struggles with those thoughts and issues and I wanted to choose a charity that isn’t normally supported as commonly as other major charities.

“This charity helps people and suicide is one of the highest killers of young people in the country.”

He has set a fundraising target of £800 for the event, of which he has already raised £600. Although he is close to reaching his target, Harry hopes the total will keep rising.

He said: “If I reach the target, I won’t let that stop, I want to see how far it can go.”

To donate to Harry’s cause, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/papyruslondonsouthend