The Marathon Des Sables (MDS) is a gruelling multi-stage adventure in one of the world's most inhospitable environments, the Sahara Desert.  It is said to be the Toughest Footrace on Earth.  Physically, it is 6 days of running over 250kms (156 miles) across endless sand dunes, rocky jebels and white-hot salt plains, carrying what you need to survive on your back.  With a hip replacement, countless injuries and ageing bones this is going to be my biggest challenge yet.  But as long as I'm quicker than the camel I'm in with a chance of finishing it!

My aim is to obtain 156 donations, so one for each mile I run.  Please feel free to dedicate your mile to someone special.  It could be someone who inspires you, someone who is no longer with us or someone who will make me smile when I’m running that mile. Just leave a note in the comments section about the reason for your nomination. 

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.