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I have decided to use my forthcoming expedition to Antarctica to raise money for Age UK. Its a charity in which I really believe, and with which I will be working as a non-executive director in 2011.
The goal of the expedition is to climb Mt Vinson (4,897m) - the highest mountain in Antarctica. It's located 700 nautical miles from the South Pole, so we will fly in from Punta Arenas in Chile, tow sleds up to a base camp, and then (conditions permitting) climb to the summit. We will be a small group of 5 climbers and a guide. The expedition is privately funded, so all donations go directly to charity.
The trip will be a big challenge. Though I have been climbing for many years, this will be the first time that I've been this far south, or somewhere this cold. It's also a bit of a worry that the last time I went this high was in 1988 - just long enough to forget how painful it's going to be.
Age UK is running a campaign called 'Spread the Warmth'. How appropriate! The campaign focuses on tackling issues of loneliness and isolation, as well as staying warm. The charity will reach 350,000 people this winter who need help to keep warm, healthy and stay in touch. Just £5 can help fund transport to local day centres, or the cost of an adviser from the Age UK advice line.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe – JustGiving will 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 please help spread the warmth this winter, and donate now.