In September this year I’ll be joining the Kelly’s Heroes team when we climb Mt Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. At a colossal 5,895m, Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the largest volcanoes to ever break through the Earth’s crust and, together, we will take on the challenge, clambering above the clouds to its summit. This is one of the toughest but most exhilarating adventures the team will ever embark on.

A few words about this incredible charity. Kelly's Heroes was formed in 2019 after the devastating loss of Kelly Hewitt who was taken from her family and friends way too young, following her struggles with Mental Health. Kelly's mum, dad and sister set the charity up to help others struggling with their mental health and for those who have been bereaved by suicide.

Unless you are affected or know someone struggling with Mental Health it’s difficult to understand. There is often a stigma associated with it, leaving many to suffer in silence. Our aim is to raise awareness and help to prevent suicide.

The Kelly's Heroes Kilimanjaro team is aiming to raise £100,000 through this challenge to help the charity continue its vital and inspirational work.

For me, the training regime has been a place for inspiration in itself – it’s taken me a good chunk of my life to realise the benefits that sleeping well, eating well and physical fitness bring. The climb and descent coincide with my 50th birthday, so hopefully I will end my half century fitter and healthier, having raised funds for an excellent and deserving charity.

Please give whatever you can – every step I take will be another stride towards that £100,000 target!