500-mile cycle ride will help shine a Green Light

Andrew Brooks has already raised more than £1,100 ahead of his adventure

A man plans to support those struggling with their mental health by cycling more than 500 miles (about 800km) around the north coast of Scotland.

Andrew Brooks, who works as an operations manager at Green Light Trust based in Lawshall, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, will take on the North Coast 500 cycling challenge from the start of September.

He hopes to raise £2,500 to help pay for someone to make use of the charity, which supports people through nature.

Mr Brooks said he wanted to help "sustain" the charity that caters for all ages.

"I've been working for Green Light Trust for the last 13 years and been part of it from a really tiny organisation to what we are now," he said.

"A few years ago my mother died, and one of the things that helped me at that time was to get on a bike, to ride and to be out outdoors in nature.

"I felt like the two things come together quite well – we're a charity that helps people struggling with mental health challenges and their journey back to wellness, and for me that's what cycling has done, too."

Andrew Brooks and Lauren Shand at Green Light Trust use the power of nature to support those struggling

During his adventure, Mr Brooks will climb 30,000ft (about 9,150m) over the Scottish terrain.

Each day he will cycle 75 miles (120km), and his family will follow him on the journey.

"They'll be following in the comfort of a car which, depending on the weather, could be really beneficial for them," he said.

"They're really supportive and that enables me to do it."

Lauren Shand, chief executive of Green Light Trust, said she was very proud of Mr Brooks.

"It will mean a huge amount. It will enable us to have a great reach and support more participants, which is why Green Light Trust exists – to support people and to give them an opportunity to connect with nature and rebuild their lives."

Ms Shand said the charity took people to a woodland setting to teach them woodland skills.

"It brings people together, connects people with nature and really supports their mental health and wellbeing," she added.