I am running the Marathon des Sables at the end of March for two worthy charities with close family ties.

The Marathon des Sables is a 250km/156m run across the Sahara in Morocco over 6 days. It’s the equivalent of a marathon a day carrying all my own food and kit in 40+ degree heat. It’s often referred to as the toughest footrace on earth because its all off road and self-dependent. Click here for more detail.

If you think this challenge is enough to warrant some sponsorship I would ask you to split your donation equally between the two charities, or just one as you wish. To donate click on the separate ‘Donate' links listed below under the 'Team Members' heading. Alternatively click here to donate to Naomi House or click here to donate to Wiedemann-Steiner syndrome Warriors.

Naomi House is a respite hospice for children with terminal illness. My late father started the charity in the early '90's to build a hospice as patients of his didn't have this essential care. 30 years later and I want to continue to support the care that they provide to children and their families.

Wiedemann-Steiner syndrome (WSS) is a rare genetic disease that my 4 year old nephew has been diagnosed with. It was only genetically characterised in 2012 and there is very little awareness, support, or research into it which is why the money raised for the National Wiedemann Steiner Syndrome Warriors is so important - to better support those affected and raise awareness of the syndrome.