My mid life crisis moment came in January when I read a piece in the Daily Telegraph by Marcus Armytage, "Charlie Egerton is looking for charity riders to take part in a charity race at Newbury..." was the gist of it, "all you have to do is ride a horse round one bend".

It all sounded so easy. My mind was made up and quickly I imagined riding the perfect AP finish, nicking the race on the line with the crowds going wild!

That night I mentioned it to Sue, who indeed thought I was having a mid-life moment but thought it was a brilliant idea although she was quick to make two quite key points “you can’t ride and you’re fat”.

Two good points indeed, but really it can’t be that difficult to learn how to ride and to lose 2 stone…

I won’t bore you with the nitty-gritty, but after many a lesson and laxative, I am now fully aware about the difficulties of both riding and weight loss!

This is where you step in. In the past I have kept this little journey in my life to just a few, but now I need to announce it to the world in the hope that you all sponsor me and hence drive me on.

The full facts are that on Thursday, 4 July I will be riding in the The George Frewer Memorial Race at Newbury Racecourse in aid of the Mary Hare Charity. This charity works tirelessly to try and ensure deaf children get the vital education and support they need to reach their full potential.

The race is 1mile, 5 furlongs and ideally, fully clothed and with saddle, I need to weigh 12stone.

Current update: the furthest I have gone on any horse is about 3 furlongs and naked I weigh 13stone 1lb (started at 14st)!

All along I have been under the guidance of Sam Strong and Ali Brewer, who train from the beautiful Castle Piece Stables. Riding started with The Little Hidden Riding School and from there I have progressed with the very generous support of Stan Moore, Melanie Duff and Joe & Laura Quinton. For the past two weeks I have been riding an 11-year old greay called Witchry on a regular basis for Natalie Lloyd-Beavis who trains here at Parsonage Farm, which has been a fantastic experience.

At this stage I am continuing with my riding out and fasting and am on the look out for an actual horse to ride in the race. That’s where I am now and who knows what happens next.

However, if you would sponsor me, it would really gee me up for the remainder of this epic journey.

Thanks very much!!

Yours, Freddie