Leonard Cheshire was an amazing man, who was a brilliant World War II pilot but who also went on to become a fantastic ambassador for good and helping those who needed it.

In the Queens Christmas message after his death she stated- "Perhaps this shining example of what a human being can achieve in a lifetime of dedication can inspire in the rest of us a belief in our own capacity to help others".   

From one man’s dedication to help others, Leonard Cheshire now employ 6000 staff and 6500 volunteers, supporting more than 30,000 individuals in the UK and within 15 countries in Africa and Asia.

They support individuals to live, learn and work as independently as they choose, whatever their ability. Led by people with experience of disability, they are at the heart of local life - opening doors to opportunity, choice and support in communities around the globe.

I was fortunate to work on a project for Leonard Cheshire which was originally the first hotel in the world for people living with disabilities, located at Park House Hotel in Sandringham. The project suffered from the financial impact of the Covid lockdown, but the spirit did not. Although that project is currently not advancing (unless my fund raising is exceptional!) it introduced me to the amazing staff, volunteers and users of the charity.

The Queen had been the patron since 1980 and remained so until her passing. Originally I intended to support the charity as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Sadly events have move on. Reading the Queen's Christmas message about Leonard Cheshire, it is striking how those same words could be applied to her life.

Finally, I can’t think of a better charity to give my blood, sweat and tears for.  It is not lost on me at my age and fitness, how big a challenge this will be for me both physically and mentally (I already got my first running injury).  However, I hope with great support and sponsorship, I will get through the pain and deliver some much needed financial benefit for this great charity.

Thank you. Mark