A long time ago, after 7 years training, I became a member of the British cross-country skiing team competing in the 1984 Olympic Games, and in the I982 World Championships in ski-orienteering. So I have some experience of the reality and the benefits of extreme physical challenges, both physical and psychological. I have supported 65 Degrees North (www.65degreesnorth.co.uk) for several years and have also been inspired by my Royal Marine son Tom and my former-Royal Marine husband Andy, both of whom have been closely involved with the charity in their separate ways.

So in May I am going to attempt a 3-part challenge:-

SWIM – On 13 May I will swim 1 nautical mile from the Mewstone (an island off the coast of South Devon) to Wembury. I am neither a strong nor a brave swimmer so this will really challenge me!

WALK – Over the next 6 ½ days I will walk the 117-mile Coast to Coast (Two Moors Way) from Wembury to Lynmouth, crossing Dartmoor and Exmoor, camping overnight.

CLIMB – My final challenge will be to climb the spectacular tidal sea-cliff at Baggy Point, North Devon.

Please do what you can to support me in helping this remarkable charity that makes such an incredibly positive difference to the lives of those who have been physically or psychologically injured in their service to our country.

65 Degrees North seeks to help in the rehabilitation of wounded, injured or sick (WIS) service personnel & veterans by offering the opportunity to participate in challenging adventure.

By changing the perception of physical and mental disability through the ‘Spirit of Adventure’ we aim to inspire and motivate others to overcome adversity, achieve and succeed!