A plan devised a little while ago has turned reality, and my adventure begins on 5 October 2013 when I will start walking through 4 different climate zones to hopefully reach the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro (5895 m) in Tanzania at sunrise a gruelling 6 days later. Whilst my trip is entirely self-funded, I want to use this tough, personal challenge (to mark my 50th birthday) to raise awareness and funds for a charity I truly believe in. The Art Room is an Oxford based charity who offers art as therapy to children and young people who experience difficulty in mainstream education or at home. It offers them a chance to spend special time away, to feel safe and valued in a caring environment where the power of art allows them to engage positively and build self-esteem.  Please give as much as you feel able to. Even a small donation of £3 will be enough to buy a pot of paint, £1,000 - buys 85 pots of paint, paint brushes and pencils for an Art Room for a year!

On a personal level, I am very excited to get involved with the Art Room, and I have no doubt that your support and goodwill will help me to reach the roof of Africa, but more importantly ensure that the dedicated team at the Art Room can continue with their amazing work to make children feel good about themselves. 

Please visit http://www.theartroom.org.uk.