I grew up in Southampton and one of my best mates at school was Franny Benali. When he went on to play for our beloved Saints, I followed him through all the ups and downs. Since he finished playing he's inspired me with his many Charity Fundraising Challenges and all the good work he's done for the local community and for Cancer Research nationally. 

Now I'm joining Franny 'On Tour' and taking on a marathon-length trek along the beautiful South Downs Way from Brighton to Eastbourne. We'll be walking with a small group of fellow fundraisers from dawn to dusk, over Firle Beacon and the Seven Sisters to Beachy Head. 26.2 miles across the rolling hills. 

My parents, Jenny and Ray McCrisken, were life-long Saints fans too. Franny always had time for a catch up with them when we were growing up and they followed his career with great pride. Sadly we lost them both to cancer, so I'm taking this challenge in their memory.

I lived in Brighton for 6 years in the second half of the 1990s and used to love walking the Downs and especially across the Seven Sisters. So it feels like this is the perfect time to go back. I still do plenty of walking with our dog Indy but I've never done a MARATHON - unlike my wife who's run lots of them! So this is my chance to rise to the challenge and raise money for a great charity.

Saints Foundation is the charity of Southampton Football Club - it's the club's way of giving back. For over 20 years now, Saints Foundation has been transforming lives in and around Southampton helping thousands of people become more involved, healthier and empowered members of their community.They use the power and passion of Southampton FC to make a difference in my hometown. 

I know times are hard at the moment but please support by donating if you can - thank you!