I know what you're thinking. That Mathew, he's young and fit, a member of Leander (the premier rowing club in the country), and is related to one of the finest oarsmen of his generation, double Olympic gold medallist, Steve Williams. This rowing lark will be a breeze for him.

But do not be fooled. Beneath this cool, calm exterior there lies a complete lack of natural talent. Add to that twenty years of drinking and smoking* and you begin to appreciate that it will require a feat of Herculean proportions just to walk down to the gym, let alone row 10KM.

But row it I shall, and that is why is need your support! I cannot do it on my own!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Stroke Association 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! Go on, you know you want to!

* Obviously, that was in the past - I'm now one of those tea-total, non-smoking, boring old farts who votes green and worries about ozone change.

UPDATE: Thanks to all of you who helped me to reach my target! For those of you who have yet to give, please do so as every pound I get above my target is one on the eye for those who said I would not make it. You know who you are! ;-)

UPDATE TO THE UPDATE: Thanks to all of you for your support - with Gift Aid, the total raised is almost £600 which is far in excess of what I had hoped to raise, so thank you very much! I won't embrarrass myself by giving my time for the 10K but needless to say I will not be joining the Olympic Rowing team any time soon.