Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

One drunken evening back in December 07 a starry-eyed Ben said 'why not' when asked if he wanted to join a similarly drunk David Beattie in a triathlon. 6 months later (and 6 trips to the gym) and its crunch time.

Yes that's right. On August 9th this year I will be taking part in the London triathlon. Its by no means a small event; a 750m swim, 20k cycle and 5k run mean that I might actually die!

I know I have talked about it for the last 6 months but now its happening and I need your support.

I will be doing this for two reasons.

1) i like tight fitting lycra
2) a family friend's kid Archie needs your help

Now because little Archie can't be registered as a charity in his own right I am using Meningitis UK for my page as they work very closely with Nicky, Archie's mother.

However please follow this link www.archiesstory.co.uk at some point and have a look at Archie's site. He is a great kid and full of life and if you want to help him too feel free to donate on there also.

Little Archie Barton was less than 18 months old when he developed a temperature and was rushed to hospital and diagnosed with Meningitis B.

The severe septicaemia which followed has ravaged Archie's body and caused him to have both legs amputated.

In addition he has lost a number of fingers, part of an ear and the tip of his nose.

Just home from hospital after 5 months, Archie now has severe visual impairment and is facing a difficult life.

As he grows up he will need a continual supply of new prosthetic legs. Those available on the NHS have limited function and are unlikely to give Archie good mobility. The cost of alternatives could reach £12,000 every few months, which is something his parents Nicky and Murray cannot afford.

There is no vaccine against meningococcal group B, which causes almost 90% of all meningitis cases and is most prevalent in children under the age of five. Meningitis UK, a Bristol-based charity, have launched a £7m vaccination appeal.

Archie's mother Nicky was able to be with Archie for his 5 month stay in hospital in Bristol because of the help provided by Ronald McDonald House, Bristol, an independent charity which provides Home from Home accommodation, free of charge, to the families of critically ill children receiving care at the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and Frenchay Hospital.

So thats it. Please give generously. Its all for a good cause and this site claims the tax back also so every bit helps.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Meningitis UK gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!

Thanks

Ben

PS - feel free to come down on the day and support me, even if it is only to see me in spandex!