In less than 11 weeks’ time I will be fulfilling a lifelong dream of climbing mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It’ll be no easy feat tackling 5,895 metres above sea level, enduring harsh terrains, local wildlife and baring temperatures as low minus 14 degrees.

As such I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to raise some money for a very worthy local charity –Together Trust, who support more than 3,700 vulnerable young people and adults across the North West including Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire and Lancashire each year through Residential Care, Fostering, Family Support, Community Services and Special Education & Support.

Any contribution however small would be appreciated and will be put to very good use. It is also the reason some of you might see me attempting to grow a beard after the New Year to add to the fund raising cause.