My name is Michael Bates. I am a member of the House of Lords.On Saturday 27 July 2013 I set off from Downing Street, London to walk 500 miles to Derry in Northern Ireland.

The purpose of the walk is to raise funds for Save the Children's vital work supporting child refugees fleeing the fighting in Syria.

The walk began on the 1st anniversary of the London Olympic Games and I reached Derry after 35 days and 518.8 miles.

My goal is to raise £50,000 which will be enough for Save the Children to provide food, shelter and clothing for 1000 families fleeing the war in Syria with nothing. You can follow my progress at www.walkforsyriaschildren.org

Cheques can be sent made payable to 'Save the Children' to Lord Bates, House of Lords. SW1A 0PW