I am completing two iron-distance triathlons this year. The 'Outlaw' in Nottingham on the 29th July and Ironman Wales in Tenby on the 9th September 2018.

They are very different courses but the same distance. A 2.4 mile swim, 112 miles bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon run to finish.

I wanted to support two charities that are very close to my heart whilst doing this.

Diabetes UK were a great source of support for my family and myself when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 14. 

The Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance is a great service for our area. I grew up in Lincolnshire and am now a GP in Nottinghamshire; several of my patients have been massively helped by this service when in times of emergency need.

I have trained daily (with fabulous support from my wife Naomi and kids Caleb and Esme) for 9 months to be able to race these events.

I have sometimes been grumpy, injured, tired and not easy to live with whilst I trained for up to 20 hours a week. Did I mention that the support my family have given has been fabulous!? I love them to bits.

Please donate anything you feel able to give to support these great causes. No amount is too small.

Many thanks

Chris