Community. Self sustainability. Bouncing back from adversity. Starting again from nothing. Making sensible decisions when under ear-bursting emotional and social pressure. All things I believe are hard to achieve - but crucial to strive for. And, sometimes, people need help. Not harsh treatment and shallow words.

As many of you know, in 2015, I was shown first hand how the 'crime' of being homeless goes unmercilessly punished by people who should know better. And who have no idea of the toll that the sheer terror of being homeless takes on someone.

It's hard to come back from a big fall. I know. And the local charity in Reading, Launchpad, helps people do just that.

As well as that, over the last 10 years, I have worked myself to the point of financial ruin and back to having a lot of excess money multiple times. The rollercoaster ride of my life has meant that I feel hugely privileged to have the things I have and the roof over my head. And the support of loving friends and family. Not everyone has that.

Part of my journey has been the love of food to help me through the periods of relentless toil and little reward. I have put on a lot of weight and am very (that's very very) unfit. Sometimes I wheeze my way up the stairs at work and have to stop at the top to get my breath.

So, this event has two big opportunities. Yes, for Launchpad, but also for my health and fitness. Fund raising starts now. Training starts now. 

So, whatever money you all help me raise for LaunchPad, I will match - up to £1,000 of my own money. I can't pledge more than that. But, hopefully, it's an incentive for me to put my money where my mouth is. And for you to help me make a difference.

Now it's up to you. The more you donate. The more I donate. And the harder I will run.