I have been a governor at York St John University for several years. I joined because I am truly passionate about education and believe it is so important that everyone should have the chance of the best education. York St John is a brilliant University that does great things for its students. Two of my children went to York St John University and have gone on to have successful teaching careers of their own - a true testament of the fantastic foundation York St John provided for them.

In particular, I believe that financial hardship should not be a barrier to someone's education and so I am raising funds for the York St John University Student Support Fund. The fund is crucial in providing much needed extra money for students who are experiencing financial difficulties, support which might be the difference between somebody staying at University and completing their studies or leaving because they couldn't afford it.

I am also passionate about cycling and am taking on the challenge of cycling from Lands' End to John O'Groats - a journey of 980 miles over 9 days covering the length and breadth of the country. It is one of the greatest cycling challenges and decided to combine this with my passion for York St John to raise much needed funds to support its students at critical times in their University life.

Every pound given is used wisely and has already made a huge difference to the lives of students struggling with financial hardship. With your support the University will be able to keep on supporting its students when they most need it.

Many thanks

Steve Milner