In April 2013 I shall be running the 'Marathon des Sables'. This is widely regarded across the globe as the hardest footrace in the world! I figure that if I'm going to do something then I'm going to do it properly and nothing comes harder than this. In return for the effort I really hope I can raise some great money for Mencap as it is a fantastic charity that does real 'proper' charity work that every one of us can relate to and see the benefit in our local community.

The MdS is an epic ultra-marathon. It is a six day race of over 150 miles in the heat and sand of the Sahara Desert. To make matters worse, stages have time limits and I'll have to carry everything I'll need as it is a self-supported race. Challenges do not get harder.

Needless to say, my life is now starting to evolve around an endless programme of training and fundraising - I would really appreciate it if you could show your support and donate; all money donated will go to Mencap as I am covering my own costs myself. Mencap makes a huge difference to so many people - I'm sure everyone knows someone who has benefited from the great work it carries out.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please please please dig deep, all donations no matter the size will be appreciated. THANK YOU.