On Saturday 18th November I will be abseiling over the side of Basingstoke Hospital, in aid of the Hampshire Hospitals Charity… Dressed as Santa, no less.

The charity does fantastic work for the patients, families and carers, volunteers and colleagues that use/work in Basingstoke, Winchester, Andover and Alton hospitals.

It will be no surprise to learn that NHS trusts don’t receive funding for everything that they need, so NHS charities are fundamental in filling that gap. The projects they fund, items they provide, and resources they bring make life better for people using the hospital services.

Chances are that we have all accessed a service within the hospital, be that planned or as an emergency, and have therefore benefitted from the charity’s work (probably unknowingly) – I know my family and I have, so this is my way of giving a little back and making somebody’s stay in hospital a little bit better.

If you are able to sponsor me, I’d be incredibly grateful. Not only will all the money go directly to the charity, but your support will also spur me on to launch myself (in a gentle and orderly manner!) over the edge of the hospital building and abseil the 75ft back to solid ground. If that’s not reason enough, then seeing me dressed as Santa has got to be worth £10 of your money alone, I reckon.

I’d appreciate any donations you are able to make. Thanks in advance.