On June 3rd I will set out from Lands End on a 5-week running journey from toe to tip of the UK. The total distance will be 1,066 miles, with an average of 34 miles per day and up to 1,500m elevation each day (that's the equivalent of going up Ben Nevis). 

Keswick Mountain Rescue is one of three charities I am raising money for; the other 2 being Cornwall Air Ambulance and Chestnut Tree Children's Hospice in Sussex. Please donate to whichever charity you prefer.

I first went to the Lake District when I was at university and now visit at least 2 or 3 times a year. Running in the fells and swimming in the Lakeland tarns and streams are two of my favourite activities. Whilst thankfully - so far - I have not needed rescuing from the hills, those who know me well will know why the mountain rescue service is so important to me. 

The Team comprises up to 50 team members. As well as being on call in all weather, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, there is a significant amount of on-going training in advanced first aid, mountain and water rescue. In recent times there have been around 100 rescues a year, each call-out involving 12 to 20 members and taking anywhere between one hour and several days.

As Run Britannia runs through the middle of the Lake District, and takes place during a very poignant anniversary, the mountain rescue service is a very fitting charity to support.