This summer, I’m joining 2 old codgers taking time away from work to walk the breadth of France across the Pyrenean mountain range (the old man, Paul Stevens, and John Scoble). They need looking after and in any case somebody has to carry the tents. The journey starts in Hendaye on the Atlantic coast and finishes in Banyuls-sur-Mer on the Mediterranean coast. The walk is 890 kilometres in total and involves climbing the equivalent of over 5 times the height of Mt Everest.

This walk is entirely self-funded and I’m raising money in aid of the British Renal Society research fund. This fund underwrites research in the care of people with kidney disease and promotes research directly relevant to the immediate needs of patients, in particular through projects in which there is multiprofessional involvement. This not only reflects the mission and diverse constitution of the British Renal Society but these two aspects of the society's goal are in many ways complimentary, multiprofessional involvement usually focuses research questions on the immediate needs of patients.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me, 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!