As an increasingly fat middle-aged man who's just become a dad again at 47, I figured it was time to challenge myself and get off my fa'tarse  -that's Hungarian for sofa - and do something worthwhile. I've done runs before but let's face it my knees aren't what they were so I thought that a pleasant stroll would probably be doable.

I'd have liked to have done something impressive, like swim across the Atlantic, underwater, unsupported, but that would take longer than my annual leave allowance.

So I've settled for walking 100 km (62 miles in old money) in 30 hours. The walk follows the South Downs Way so it can't be that bad. I mean it's not the North Mountains Way is it? It sounds all soft and fluffy like a bunny rabbit, like Watership Down.

I believe it's being organized by a group of pickle lovers who call themselves the Gurkhas. I think they can't spell very well, but again if people who make, and eat, chutney and gherkins are organizing it then it can't be that bad. 

You can find out all about the walk at:

 http://www.oxfam.org.uk/Trailwalker

I'm dragging three of my mates along with me as the organizers say we have to do it in a team of 4. I think it's a safety thing - you need the numbers to fend off ramblers who are known to frequent the wilds of the South Downs searching for hapless victims to join their jumper-wearing cult.

It would be great if you could spare a few pounds, euro or dollars and help me raise enough money for a well or two, for people who need access to fresh water. I'm sure the good people at Oxfam will find numerous ways to spend any/all of your kind donations.

My soon-to-be blistered feet thank you.