Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

On Sunday, 23rd October I will be lining up against former Grand National winner Ryan Mania, bloodstock agent David Redvers and several other like-minded countryside-loving enthusiasts at Aintree, on Countryside Race Day.

Although we won't be jumping around the famous Grand National fences, we will be racing over 1m5f and hopefully will all make it as far as the finish line! 

There has been a lot of banter between the competitors in the build-up to this race;  some of the wannabe-jockeys have been madly dieting to make the weight while a few have been competitively riding out every morning to ensure their fitness is up to scratch and others are being remarkably cagey about their mount!

Win, lose or end up in a heap on the floor, whatever happens on the day, we are all taking part to raise money for the Countryside Alliance Foundation Charity which aims to help adults and children alike make the most of the incredible remedial and educational benefits of being involved in the natural environment. By introducing people to the delights of rural Britain it is hoped to inspire them to become passionate about the countryside, and helping to protect the natural environment.

I would be delighted if you could offer a donation, no matter how small, to help boost funds raised for the charity and to motivate me to maintain my strength in the last few days leading up to the race!

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

A huge thank you to all the kind people who have donated so far but most importantly to the connections of the horse I am riding. Thank you also to those who have helped with finding a horse, those who have let me loose on their horses on the gallops or the others who have had to put up with a complete novice riding out with them...it's been a lot of fun and I am grateful to everyone for the support.

Best wishes,

Polly