A year ago Helen and I walked 100 miles in 10 days along the South Downs Way carrying all our camping equipment and provisions on our backs, on difficult terrain and in blistering heat. We were magnificently supported. 

Sadly the plight of refugees around the world has been even greater with all of us witnessing horrendous scenes as refugees try to cross the Channel to reach our shores and more recently the horrific scenes from Afghanistan as men, women and children try to flee the Taliban regime. 

Helen and I have been so moved by this that we have set ourselves an even bigger challenge this year: 8 Wiltshire White Horses, 100 miles, but this time in just 8 days. 

Refugees are ordinary people. Imagine having to leave your home because of fear and persecution. If you've never experienced anything like this, that's all down to one thing - luck.Every year people make dangerous journeys to reach our shore and claim asylum. They have fled conflict and persecution and are desperately seeking safety. But the system they rely on in the UK all too often fails them. Instead of safety and shelter, they can be left hungry and homeless on our streets whilst they wait, sometimes years, to get a decision that in many cases is wrong. Refugee Action works directly with refugees to help them rebuild their lives here in Britain. They provide support with housing, finances and legal aid, as well as campaigning for their rights.We’ve joined Refugee Action's Race for Refugees to give hope to people forced to leave their homes. Please join us in making the UK a more welcoming place for refugees. Any support you can give us would be massively appreciated.