A FESTIVAL to remember one of mountain biking’s great pioneers and characters is taking place this weekend in Innerleithen.

Jaymie Mart was a national and international downhill champion.

Her success and vibrant personality made her a popular figure on the trails across the world.

But beneath the smile was a woman who suffered badly from depression - in 2012 she took her own life.

Since her death friends and colleagues have rallied round to create a fitting memorial in the shape of a weekend festival which began last year.

And this weekend it is expected that more people than ever will converge beneath the downhill tracks where Jaymie excelled.

Emma Guy, who is one of the Jayfest Summer Festival organisers, said: “Jay was such a big personality and always fun to be around.

“She was always busy doing something whether it was travelling the world riding her bike, making jam and furniture, or playing her guitar and writing songs - anyone that ever met her always had a story to tell.

“We didn’t know she struggled with depression, she found it difficult to talk about.

“We wanted to do something positive that would not only celebrate what a warm-hearted and vibrant person she was but also to raise awareness of mental health and to let other people know its okay not to be okay and that they can talk about it.” Jayfest Summer Festival is a celebration of music, food, crafts and mountain biking.

The festival site, at the end of Traquair Road, will have live music beneath canvas, a vintage fair as well as plenty of delicious delicacies.

Jayfest also has plenty of children’s activities, including pony rides and penalty shoot-outs.

And there are free yoga sessions and the Scottish Association of Mental Health will be in attendance to offer advice and literature.

Several biking champions will be on hand for skills sessions and guided rides throughout the weekend.

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