On 15th July I'll be participating in Ironman UK. I choose not to use the word 'compete' as the aim is just to complete in one piece, and with any luck somewhere mid table.

If you aren't familiar, this is a triathlon consisting of a 3.8k swim, 180k bike ride and 42k run (or 2.4miles, 112miles and a marathon if you voted Brexit). The cut off time is 16 hours.

A disciplined training programme, a careful diet and proper mental preparation make this achievable. Sadly I have not done that so it's going to be a tough day, especially given the forecast is for 25 degrees C.

I'm doing this to raise money for Place2Be's work at the Bridge Academy. Place2Be is a children's mental charity providing school-based support and in-depth train programmes to improve the emotional well-being of pupils, families teachers and school staff. I feel very strongly about the importance of this work, both as a father, and as an ex-serviceman, given the stress military service puts on mental health.

If you are able to sponsor me to support this cause I would be extremely grateful.