While I worked as a reporter in Northampton, I often covered stories on homelessness and rough sleeping.

I was privileged to meet and talk to some of the people on our streets, learning their real stories and discovering how easy it is for anyone to end up in the same situation.

The average age of death for homeless men in the UK is 45.9 years old. For women, that number falls to 41.6.

I was lucky enough to chat, at various times, to George Murray, Kristian Olsteins and Sam Wright. Look up their names - their stories are important.

They are sadly no longer with us.

I reported on the death of Chris Matthews, horribly let down by the people who were supposed to be helping and supporting him.

These are far from the only people affected by the horrors of homelessness. Sadly, many others have also died - but it doesn't end there.

It's common knowledge that rough sleepers have to deal with extreme weather, horrendous sleeping conditions and all too often endure a battle against drink and drug addiction.

But, I have also seen people sent straight back to the streets from prison or even hospital. I reported on rough sleepers being used by drunks as toilets or set on fire.

Worse, rough sleepers in Northampton - and beyond - are subject to assaults, and even sexual assaults. Many people assume these attacks come from within their own community, but all too often it is from people - mainly men, mainly drunk - coming out of pubs and clubs. These idiots decide to attack or molest those more vulnerable and less privileged than they are.

For all these reasons I will be taking part in the 16:15 Charity Run at the Racecourse on Saturday, May 20. My lofty aim is to run for all six hours and complete an ultra distance for the first time... wish me luck!

But, more importantly, help me help people like George, Kristians, Sam and Chris have better lives by sponsoring me.

Any money raised will go to Project 16:15, which helps rough sleepers on the streets of Northampton.

Thank you.