Ok so here's the story, a few of my friends from school decided that it would be good fun to try to complete the National 3 Peaks Challenge on the weekend of 8th/9th May to get us all back in touch. (Do we really have to do it on the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales though?)

The line up is Rob Olley (he is the leader so blame him !), Harvey and Gavin Albrow, Rob Budden, Dave Bishop and yours truly, already the challenge is being called the "6 Dorks in Van" by Rob Olley's kids !

Well the reality of the whole thing is now upon us and boots, poles and other associated walking gear has now been purchased and training is well and truly underway. It can be difficult to find a hill to climb in East Anglia but the gym treadmill seems a good alternative especially at the highest incline.

It would be remiss not to take the opportunity to try to give something back to a great charity that has directly supported me and my youngest daughter Sophie over the years so lets see how much I can raise. No target in mind financially, given my Dad raised more than £2500 for his Trek to Machuu Picchu in 2003 I might just have this in mind though, but to come back in one piece from climbing the 25 miles in 24 hours and the associated travel is certainly an aspiration !

For those of you who dont know Sophie, my 8 year old daughter, was born early with some acute health problems and then was later diagnosed as being profoundly deaf. She had a cochlear impant fitted just before her 3rd birthday and will proudly and gladly show you her scars, bumps and aid to prove it all ! She gets great support from our local Deaf Childrens Society, some of you do support this with our annual golf day and you guys already know the direct benefit of your support.

These 3 Peaks are nothing compared to what Sophie has had to climb in her short life so please be as generous as you can and please keep me out the pub until 9th May.

Thanks

Greg