Back in April I thought it would be a good idea to get back into shape for the upcoming summer holiday. I needed something to keep me going so I signed up for Lidingöloppet, a 30k cross country running race in Sweden. Having successfully completed this race back in 2003 (before discovering the joy of South West London pubs) I thought that was a perfect challenge. Having failed to clock up the miles both before and after my holiday I needed additional inspiration. I found it in raising money for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. I have come across several ex-Battersea cats and got to know a bit about the charity. This organisation has cared for neglected, mistreated and abandoned dogs and cats in London for over 150 years. I want to help Battersea in the great work they do by raising some money so that more dogs and cats can find new homes and live a happy life. Please join me in doing so.

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.