Cyclists will take the 800-mile slow ride from Axminster to Turin to raise awareness of depression

Around 30 cyclists will set off from Axminster on an 800 mile-journey next month to raise awareness of depression.

They are riding to Turin, Italy, in memory of Uplyme woman Philippa ‘Pip’ Corbin, the River Cottage chef who took her own life, aged 27, in January last year.

Members of her family, including parents Hugh and Pam Corbin, will be taking part, along with Uplyme Vicar Rev Gavin Tyte.

Their ‘Slow Ride to Turin’ begins on October 13 and they hope to reach the food festival Salone del Gusto by October 25.

The ride will raise money for The Human Givens Foundation and The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, both of which help people with depression.

Rev Tyte said Philippa was a well-loved member of the local church and community and he hoped people would contribute generously.

He said the best way of doing this was via the internet link at http://www.charitygiving.co.uk/slowridetoturin. People can also fill in a paper form on the church notice-board.

He said: “One of my best school friends took his own life. He suffered with depression. So many of my friends and colleagues struggle with the illness and it is so important that we raise awareness of this condition. Let’s talk about it and let’s get help to those who need it. There is hope – real hope.”

Journalist and broadcaster Alastair Campbell is also supporting the fundraising ride.

He said: “Depression is an illness of which there is insufficient understanding. Philippa’s death underlines how painful the condition can be in extreme cases, and the devastation it can bring. Getting good from bad is a great and human reaction, and I am sure that is what is motivating Philippa’s family and friends to take on this great adventure and raise funds and awareness for charities operating in this field. As someone who gets depression myself, I wish them all the very best in their bike ride, their fundraising, and their keeping Philippa’s memory alive.”