Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

When I look back over the last forty years, in particular as a co-founder of the Malcolm Saville Society, the work of children's author Malcolm Saville has undoubtedly been a huge influence in my life.  But today, my interest goes beyond the books themselves.  For me, it is no longer about the fictional stories: it is about the real people, the real places and, most importantly, the real friendships that I have been lucky enough to develop as a result of sharing an interest in Malcolm Saville’s work.

To mark the occasion of my 40th birthday, I would like to involve as many friends and family as possible in joining me to help raise funds for a children's charity - to help give something to some of today's children who may be untouched by the friendly ethos and family values expressed so consistently throughout Malcolm Saville's stories. So, how is this going to work?

Initially, I'm just asking anyone who feels they would be happy to 'buy me a drink' or a meal or even a present, to instead donate the money they would have spent on this kind gesture. Equally, I would like to appeal to anyone reading this now who agrees with the sentiment of what I am trying to achieve through this page, to also consider making a donation, please.

The Children's Society do such great work in helping vulnerable and disadvantaged children in the UK today - keeping them safe and providing vital assistance when their world is turned upside down. Will you be kind enough to help me raise some money for them today, please?

-  £5 could pay for a hot meal for a neglected child when a project worker meets with them.

-  £10 could pay for a phone card for a vulnerable youngster to contact a project worker when they're in danger.

-  £25 could pay for a hot meal, shower and living essentials for a young runaway.

-  £50 could pay for a day out for 4 young carers in need of a break.

-  £100 could pay for a mentor to work with a vulnerable child for a whole year.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they will never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they will send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - we raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now - together, we can really make a difference...