AN EXPEDITION to Mount Everest will be completed in memory of a young man from Wrington.

AN EXPEDITION to Mount Everest will be completed in memory of a young man from Wrington.

Adam Smith died on September 8 after suffering from depression and now a family friend will walk to more than 18,000 feet above sea level to raise money for a mental health charity.

Andy Brown, who has known Adam's dad David for more than 18 years, will walk for nine days to reach Mount Everest base camp starting from Lukla in east Nepal.

All money raised will be given to the charity Young Minds, which received £470 in donations from a collection at Adam's funeral.

More than 100 friends and family members attended the funeral of the 20-year-old, held on September 19.

Mr Brown, who lives in Warwickshire, said: "When I heard what had happened to Adam I was shocked. I have known David for a long time and wanted to do something to help.

"I had already planned to do this expedition but decided to do it in memory of Adam and help raise money for his dad's chosen charity.

"I have three sons myself and I can't imagine what it must be like to lose a child."

The 48-year-old easyJet pilot will be embarking on the trip with two of his friends in November next year.

He is hoping to raise around £1800 from his expedition, which equates to 10p per foot.

David Smith said: "It's good that something positive can come from such a terrible incident.

"I hope we can raise a good amount of money for Young Minds. Adam's sister has started off the fund with a donation of £100."

To sponsor the expedition log on to www.justgiving.com/andybrown1