A TEAM of intrepid cyclists fresh from a 300-mile ride across Scotland in aid of a cancer charity have turned their attention to fundraisjng for men's mental health.

Ten-year-old cycling fanatic Felix Cooper and his dad Will want to raise awareness of mental health issues by riding up one of the Lake District's highest mountain's, Helvellyn.

Mr Cooper, 42, from Penny Bridge, said the inspiration to shine a light on mental health came after a close friend of 20 years killed himself earlier in the year.

He expects 50 riders will join him when he takes on the challenge next year around May next year.

Mr Cooper said: "The inspiration comes after losing my friend to suicide.

"Mental health is something that people often find to be a difficult thing to talk about and I hope any awareness we can raise willl help.

"The number of men who die every week due to suicide is horrendous.

His son, Felix, who goes to Penny Bridge CE School, is keen cyclist who takes part in competitions up and down the country.

He recently joined his dad and a team of riders to cycle 300 miles across the Hebrides to raise money for Breast Cancer Now.

Mr Cooper said of his son's interest in his latest cause: "Felix has a lot of questions about mental health. He is only 10 and doesn't know that much about it but he is very mature for his age.

"He is very keen on music and has asked me about men in the music industry who have recently died.

"He is always looking for any excuse to hurtle up a mountain on his bike.

"But he also is behind raising awareness with me."

The previous challenge Felix and his dad saw them pass up and over arduous highland passes in a ride that took place over five days.

Mr Cooper said his son more than managed to keep up with much older cyclists.

"Felix did so well on the ride and took everything in his stride and did not complain once."

This time the group of riders will have to traverse the 950-metre peak, which sits to the north of Ambleside between Thirlmere and Ullswater.

Mr Cooper said: "It will be a totally different challenge than cycling a long way across roads in Scotland.

"It will be difficult and involve lots of carrying our bikes but we are all looking forward to it."

Previously the group managed to raise £18,000 in aid of breast cancer, with Felix's fundraising efforts totalling £5,000.

The group is currently discussing which charity to support for their next challenge.