Five years ago I took part in my first charity challenge and successfully climbed Kilimanjaro despite a fear of heights. Two years later I cycled from London to Monte Carlo - a whopping 1,000 miles! Back then I was young, fit and healthy. Fast forward five years and it's safe to say my fitness levels are not what they used to be.

In June this year I took part in the Leeds 10k and properly struggled to drag myself around. I walked on three occasions and somehow came over the line in just over 1 hour 15 minutes - thanks mostly to Lucy (pictured). 

Not happy with my run I decided to sign up to the Leeds Abbey Dash in November with the aim of running the full distance, and ideally shaving a good few minutes off my time.  

Two weeks to go and I'm properly struggling.  Training is hard. Its cold out ... and generally I've just lost interest. So, I need a bit of encouragement and thought what better way to get me around the course than a spot of guilt.  So if you donate to this great cause it is essentially your way of kicking my backside ... so please, donate whatever you can.  Added bonus - my company will match all donations so we'll double the amount I raise instantly! :) 

Thanks in advance - I'll let you know how I get on!