My wife is always looking for good ideas for me to shed a few pounds. In cohorts with her friend and fitness fanatic Kelly Marshall, and further assistance from some chap going through his mid life crisis, they have decided it would be a great idea for me to trek up the highest mountain in North Africa, Mt Toublak, a mere 4,167 metres high!! I attempt this feat in early October!

This is by far the most elaborate plan my wife has dreamed up so far and involves around 25 others, all doing the same trek! The original idea was all down to Alistair Turner (mid life crisis chappy) who celebrates his 50th birthday this year and has organised the whole thing to mark the occasion.

The overall aim is to raise over £150,000 for Afrikids. I've borrowed some of Alistair's words to describe why Afrikids deserve some of your hard earned cash.....

"I have spent a considerable amount of time with Afrikids and in my view they are one of the most impressive organisations I have come across in 20 years of working with organisational leaders. Afrikids don't just treat the symptoms, they practically invest in addressing the root causes and developing sustainability."

Afrikids have been shortlisted for the Charity Times Award, Charity of the Year 2008, announced later this month.

Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Afrikids 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, it only takes a few moments and can make a lifetimes difference! It will also help me!

All the money raised will go direct to the charities concerned. The costs of the walk are being met by the walkers themselves.