In just a few weeks time I, along with four other chaps, will be attempting to scale the highest mountain in Europe. Mont Blanc stands at 4808m high, and we will be facing many tests including altitude acclimatisation, endurance as well as extreme exposure on the mountainside. To increase the challenge, this is a self organised trip without the use of a guide, and all equipment is self-funded.

Some say this is madness! I say it is a challenge well worthy of sponsorship, and ACET is a charity well worthy of your donations. It was started over 20 years ago in the town where I now live and makes a significant impact on one of the biggest health issues in the world today.

ACET offers a compassionate response to the global HIV and AIDS pandemic. With over 30 million people infected with HIV, 2 million of whom are children, the problem continues to grow and ACET is passionately committed to preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS. Every day, 7,500 people get infected with HIV; 5.500 a day die of AIDS and each death is a personal, preventable tragedy.

200,000 died in the Haiti earthquake, a terrible tragedy - the same number die of AIDS each month.

ACET teams in 23 countries offer practical and emotional care to those infected and affected.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.