Two self-confessed ‘overweight, unfit, old and inexperienced cyclists’ set off from the Chapel Garden at Gordon’s today on for a 580 mile heart-shaped cycle route over 19 days.

Paul and Karen Smith were waved off by family and friends including actor Brian Blessed OBE and the Mayor of Surrey Heath Cllr Pat Tedder and Gordon’s staff.

The two have undertaken the Wonky Heart Challenge to mark the tenth anniversary of their son Harry’s suicide at the age of 17. Harry, a student at Gordon’s, took his own life ten years ago today, while holidaying with his parents in France, after receiving a disappointing set of AS Level results. They have chosen to set off on their cycle ride across England and Wales, in a journey that resembles a wonky heart, in the week that A Level results are received by students. As well as raising money for suicide prevention charities, their aim is to increase awareness about mental health in the young and encourage those receiving their A Level and GCSE results to talk about their feelings and emotions.

Harry’s brother and sister, Jack and Freya Smith, also Gordonians, were there to wave off their parents and remember their brother. Around school, Harry's life is commemorated with a plaque and seat in the Chapel Garden, as well as a plaque outside his Gravesend. For further information about the challenge and for donations, www.wonkyheartchallenge.co.uk