AN East Thames board member has gone the distance to raise over �5,500 for a youth mental health project.

Alec Dick, of housing landlord East Thames’ charity East Potential, cycled 300 miles from East London to north Yorkshire with friend Bob Howell to fund raise for the Great Marvellous Cool Living (GMCL) project at the First Step Foyer in Plaistow.

Alec said: “Thirteen young people live at First Step Foyer as part of the GMCL project, receiving invaluable support in a stable and secure environment, helping to improve their mental health and well-being and their life prospects.

“The young people have experienced one or more psychotic episodes so living at the foyer is vital for their continued progress.”

Residents at the foyer have decided to spend the money on residential breaks, a project that teaches them how to build and look after their own bicycle, kitchen equipment and an emergency fund for residents in financial difficulty.

GMCL provides specialist support and accommodation to young people who have experienced mental health problems.

The project helps them to develop skills they need to manage their health and live independently.

It also aims to address the stigma attached to mental health and reduce institutionalisation.