Mental health issues have blighted the lives of many families, especially in the last few crazy years. My own family is no exception.

Having witnessed up close how mental illness tries to destroy individuals, and families, I have decided to try and raise some money for Tyneside MIND mental health charity by taking up a challenge that is more mental than physical, and which will push me well outside my comfort zone. I'm also incredibly proud of my wife, Kate, who will be joining me, along with some open water swim pals of ours.

The North East Skinny Dip (NESD) is the UK's largest annual mass skinny dip. It takes place around the autumn equinox at Druridge Bay in Northumberland. This year we'll be joining approximately 1000 people as we strip completely naked and jump into the bracing North Sea at sunrise on Sunday 24th September 2023.

I've never before taken part in any kind of public event that involves going naked. And this particular event, as the UKs largest skinny dip, always garners local and national press coverage. I doubt that emerging from freezing cold water, stark naked, and in full view of phone cameras and press photographers, is an activity that is on the bucket list of many men. It's certainly not on mine!

But, ultimately, it's my choice to step outside my comfort zone and do this. And the event itself is a wonderful celebration of hope and positivity. I know we'll meet some great people and make some new friends. I hope, through your generous support, that we will also help to make a difference to those who, at times, may feel they have no choices, and no hope.