After a 5-year hiatus (not the hernia type) and a 55th birthday out there on the horizon I have persuaded, cajoled and arm twisted a great group of people to get back together to take on 3 tough challenges, the toughest yet, to raise money in support of the Joe Gilligan Trust.

We met Craig and were really inspired by what he has been doing since the passing of his son Joe at the age of 19. The charity is local, based in Stoke on Trent, and unlike many corporate charities all the funds will go to supporting the relevant causes.

Craig has highlighted some of the areas of support where the funds raised will be allocated.

The primary objective since 2009 has always been to support young adults undergoing cancer treatment. Including financial, emotional and where necessary, specialist counselling and one-to-one mentoring. Furthermore, we fund a coaching programme called ‘what next’ which focuses on choices and possible directions to take after treatment has finished. We also continue to provide performance opportunities and professional mentoring for young musicians in cancer treatment, particularly those working towards GCSE & ‘A’ level music.

In addition, we now fund specialist training for UK healthcare professionals with training providers in Germany and facilitate respite care for families at Bed & Breakfast 'Le Pommier' in the SW French countryside.

https://www.joegilligantrust.co.uk

So, what are the challenges!!

During the month of June various groups of people will be taking part to raise funds by completing the following:

• The 3 Yorkshire Peaks in one day - The Team Andy de Caso, Mick Sheehan, Rob Blackburn, Pete Collinwood

• The Sunrise to Sunset Bike Ride – 210 miles in one day

The Team Steve Owen, Tim Washington, Josh & Matt Davis, Mike Boston, Dex Walker, Neal Kinson, Al Eaton, Justin Grocott, Andy de Caso, Andrew Jackson, Mick Sheehan & Gary Simonds

• 72 holes of golf in one day – Participating Courses are Leek Birchall, Barlaston, Stone & Blythe Bridge – 32 golfers participating across the 4 courses Led by Rob Blackburn, Stuart Pointon, Oliver Heath & Andy de Caso

As you will agree, not for the faint hearted, nor should they be when we are asking people to part with their hard-earned cash. These are not just turn up and complete activities and the team will be putting in a lot of training to ensure we all complete each challenge in full and within the allocated time frame.

Any support you can offer will be greatly received and we will be sending updates as we get closer to the first challenge. There will also be updates to show how the money has been used.