I have always said that the only way that I would attempt an iron distance triathlon would be in the name of charity. I mean, people who do iron distance triathlons are truly bonkers, aren't they? Why would anyone take on such a punishing physical and mental challenge unless it was for some greater good?!! For those that don't know: an iron distance triathlon consists of a 2.5 mile swim (3.9km); a 112 mile bike ride (180km); finishing up with a full marathon run - 26.2miles (42.16km). So when it was announced that the Countess of Brecknock Hospice in Andover was planning to build a large and much needed, modern extension, I knew that I had to be as good as my word. I had to take on the challenge at last. I had to join the ranks of the truly bonkers!

The Countess of Brecknock House is such a wonderful charity. The work it does is so important (sadly, there are few of us whose lives haven't, in some way, been touched by cancer). Above all, as anyone who has had cause to come into contact with the Hospice will attest, the staff are simply outstanding. To see their care, compassion, professionalism, humour and sheer hard work in the course of treating their patients is both awe inspiring and humbling. But the building that they work in is no longer fully fit for purpose. The new extension is sorely needed. It will provide more and bigger rooms and greatly improved facilities. And that means that the wonderful staff will be able to give even more people even better care.

I am fully aware that "giving fatigue" is a modern condition. So many good causes; so many good people trying to raise money. I therefore knew that my challenge couldn't be run of the mill. It had to stand out; go above and beyond; up the ante! Although most people that know me will know of my passion for sport and fitness, I would have to admit that I am something of a jack of all and master of none. So an iron distance triathlon will challenge me to my limits and beyond. I will have to summon hitherto hidden depths of mental and physical strength. I did run a marathon some 17 years ago. I have not, however, cycled 112 miles in one sitting (so to speak) or swum 2.5 miles. And I most certainly haven't ever put all three together! In addition to which, not to put too fine a point on it, nor am I getting any younger! So this will challenge me like nothing else I have ever experienced. It will hurt. There will be times when I want to give up. But there will also be that spirit within that tells me that I can't. And that spirit will be immeasurably strengthened if I carry with me the knowledge that what I am doing will raise many thousands of pounds for the Hospice. That is what will make all the effort and hurt worthwhile. So please help me to get through those testing moments on the swim, bike or run. Please give what you can to such a wonderful and worthy cause. You will have my deepest and sincerest thanks.

The Countess of Brecknock Hospice provides respite and palliative care to adults suffering from life-limiting illness who live in Andover and its surrounding villages - or who have a connection with the area - together with comfort and support for their families, friends and carers. It is hugely reliant on voluntary donations to maintain the exceptionally high standard of services and care it provides. Put simply, if we don't support the Hospice, it won't be there to help when it is needed.