As a charity our mission is simple: to support the excellence in treatment, research and care we provide to our patients each and every day. We want to make a real difference to the people we treat – young and old – by making sure that they continue to receive the very best treatment in the very best facilities.

I have a personal connection to the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, where staff continue to look after my son Sam - administering a medical infusion every 6 weeks to manage his Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The care he receives and the way hospital staff deal with so many children, some of whom have significant and more complex needs, is just amazing! 

I also turn 50 years of age just 7 days later (assuming I make it) so I will be delighted to look back on this achievement and to know we've raised money for a good cause.  

Thanks for reading.