ShelterBox

More appropriate now than ever after natural disasters have shown once again how fragile life can be, with earthquakes in Mexico, multiple hurricanes wreaking devastation in the Caribbean Islands and flooding in Bangladesh, ShelterBox provides quality tools and materials to help people create quality shelters and start rebuilding their lives. This is a charity which my parents, who have both passed away over the last few years, were keen to support and I am keen to uphold that tradition in their memory.

Spartathlon

The Spartathlon is a 153 mile (246km) ultra marathon race held annually in Greece since 1983, taking place between Athens and Sparta. The race aims to trace the footsteps of Pheidippides, and Athenian messenger sent to Sparta in 490BC to seek help against the Persians in the Battle of Marathon.

Although many of you that know me will be aware I have completed a number of 100 mile ultra marathons, this race will be a significant challenge for any number of reasons, including the distance, the cut-off time of 36 hours, the 1000 ascent and descent of Mount Parthenio in the night, the 40° heat and finally, the cut-offs every 5km, allowing the runner no time to 'relax'.

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.