I wanted to do something for CRY in memory of one of the bright stars of Burnage Rugby Club, Josh Merrick, who sadly passed away peacefully in his sleep in January this year at the tender age of 19 years.

I had the pleasure of playing rugby with both of my sons, who are of a similar age, until a significant knee injury forced my retirement from the sport in March 2009 at the age of 50 years.

A mixture of inactivity, pain, and good-living has caused my weight to increase and in the interim period I have put on 6 stones in weight.

Whilst awaiting surgery for my knee problem I have decided that the best thing is to try and do the best for myself by losing as much weight as I can to assist in alleviating the pain and giving me a better quality of life.Who knows it may even lessen the need for me to have the operation?

Back in 2002 I did a similar thing and ended up losing 9.5 stones in just under 12 months (23 stones down to 13.5 stones). I kept this weight off until a lifestyle change and rugby caused me to gain a couple of stones.

In order to spur me on I want people to sponsor me which will hopefully keep me focussed and ultimately benefit a very worthwhile cause.

Josh Merrick would have been 21 on 12th May 2014 and I have therefore set this as my deadline.

I was weighed at a recent pre-operative assessment and came in at 140kgs (just over 22st) and my goal of 6 stones will take me to 100kg (16st).

Please help me in my goal whilst supporting a very worthwhile cause.