In April 2015, I am running the Marathon des Sables, a 156 mile event covering 6 marathons in 5 days, in temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit: It’s no wonder that the Discovery Channel has dubbed it the “Toughest Footrace on Earth.”

Please see my website at https://www.barnardtoby.wix.com/tobys-marathon-site

My reason for undertaking this challenge is to raise money for Mencap – the UK’s leading learning disability charity that works with people who have learning disabilities and provides support to their families and carers. Mencap’s work is wide reaching in the community and includes helping children and adults with learning disabilities, healthcare, education, accessing services, providing protection through advice and ultimately helping to plan for the future to provide a sense of comfort and security.

My aim is to raise £9,500 through challenges, events and corporate sponsorship which I have planned for the next 12 months, as well as training hard to ensure I complete the event with a good time and no injuries!

It'd be great if you could donate anything and help me on my way to raising money for an invaluable and far-reaching charity.