Yes….. I really am going to climb a mountain. For me it will be a physical challenge, and one that (altitude sickness permitting) I will manage with as much style as three layers of clothing, sasquatch-inspired boots, and a week without showering will allow. And the reason I’m doing it (aside from the obvious onset of a mid-life crisis) is I want to salute three amazing people who have faced mountains of the metaphorical type in their lives with more style and panache than I could ever muster.

Victoria Wiggins, you may not be joining me on the trip in January (although I know you have a will to surprise), but I will be taking every one of your wise words, amusing observations and sheer will for living life to the full with me on every step. You are pure inspiration and you really have made me consider the important things in life, and for that I thank you.

Emma Sabin, the last few months have been the equivalent of climbing Everest for you, and so Kilimanjaro will be a walk in the park for me in comparison. I am so pleased that you are winning your fight against breast cancer.

I am also taking this opportunity to raise a little money – this will be the first (and I promise last) time I will ask any of you for sponsorship money. I have chosen bowel cancer UK over every other worthwhile cancer charity as it’s the cancer we as a family had to face head on when my father was diagnosed with it over 14 years ago.

Early diagnosis of bowel cancer in the UK is a problem because people either find it uncomfortable to discuss the symptoms of the disease or simply do not know what they are. Survival rates in the UK are amongst the lowest in Europe, with 15% more patients being diagnosed at a later stage of the disease compared with most other European countries.

This is why Bowel Cancer UK's work - to encourage people to recognise the symptoms of the disease and to act on their concerns so that they have the best chance of survival - is so important. My father survived it due to an early diagnosis, a great medical team, his own steely determination and the love and support of my amazing mum and the whole family. Dad we are so supremely proud of you!

Bowel Cancer UK are a small organisation, but they make a big difference. With your help, they can have an even greater impact in the future.

Thank you. CXX