<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p> <p>As some of you know, this is my second attempt at a charity challenge...last time I planned to run the New York marathon but ended up with surgery on my neck due to a very inconvenient disc prolapse!&nbsp;</p> <p>This just makes me more determined to succeed this time and the cause is one that is very close to my heart.</p> <p>My goal is to raise vital funds for Battersea Dog and Cats Home, one of Britain's oldest charities, that has cared for more than 3 million animals since it was established in 1860.&nbsp;&nbsp; Battersea's aim is to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help and their dedication to animals means that they are reliant on support and donations from the general public.</p> <p>So, what have I let myself in for?...</p> <p>I have decided to take on the challenge of crossing the arctic circle in the very North of Norway before I am too old and crumbly to handle the physical challenges that entails, as well as the extreme weather conditions...anyone that knows me knows I hate the cold and snow and we're talking up to minus 30 here!&nbsp;&nbsp; I will be responsible for my own pack of huskies and sled and will be covering approximately 135 miles over 5 days.&nbsp;&nbsp; Accommodation will be basic (long-drop toilets!) and success will depend on fitness, stamina&nbsp;and teamwork between participants and dogs...gulp..</p> <p>Please support my endeavours.&nbsp; I am passionate about all animals and dogs in particular and feel that as a nation of so-called animal-lovers we have a duty to protect and care for animals that have been abused and abandoned by people unwilling or unable to take on the responsibilities of pet ownership.</p> <p>On behalf of all the animals and myself - THANK YOU X</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p> <p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>