Thank you for being curious about my JustGiving page:

I learnt the word mycologist - meaning fungus expert - last year through the tragic death of a family member, Justin Smith. He was a devoted naturalist and recognised that fungi are hugely important as the earth's recyclers. Consequently, as he told DEFRA, "biodiversity can only be conserved if the well-being of fungi is given as much consideration as that of animals and plants: without fungi life on earth would be unsustainable.”

Usually people ask for donations PRIOR to doing a fundraising event; I got a bit ahead of myself being so excited about doing this beautiful walk and forgot to ask for your generosity in advance! Many of you watched my progress from your mobile devices and joked with me along the way and added to my smiles. Thank you for that.

I wonder if you would be willing to donate to the Avon Wildlife Trust, where Justin worked. This is a great way to support the continuation of his studies and the protection of nature. If you want a great day out with your family and friends, I recommend a visit to Ashton Court in Bristol where a meadow has been re-named in his memory. Take time to rest there on a beautiful carved bench where you can rest and make peace with our beautiful world.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you!