On 2 June I'll be going on a marathon. I would run it, obviously, but as I am accompanying an ageing front-row forward I will be forced to walk. Mark Evans is, in his defence, walking all the way round the city of London on a 150-mile trek over six days. He has invited people to accompany him for a day, so I will be walking from Hayes to Ewell.

Mark's website for the walk can be found here: www.marksloopwalk.com. He is walking to raise money for Friends United Network, which is a charity that helps disadvantaged children by setting each up with a volunteer adult who provides friendship and support for a minimum of two years. Their website address is www.friendsunitednetwork.org.uk

I need to raise £250 for this excellent cause in order to take part, so please pledge any sum you feel you can spare, however small. Let's face it, this is as close as I'm going to get to doing the marathon, so it really is a one-off.

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