Entering my 60th year in life, I have decided to try and fundraise throughout the year for Global Action Nepal (GAN), a charity run by a friend of my sons', which is seeking to raise educational and micro-economic standards in Nepal.

GAN intends to use funds that I generate for a specific new project to refurbish schools, especially roofs and glass in windows (to make them weatherproof and thus usable by all at all times) and discreet cubicle toilets, to make it possible for girls to go to school, as they understandably won't attend unless toileting is private.

GAN will use local apprentice labour for the work in the hope that unskilled workers can also learn a trade, and thus give themselves a chance to improve themselves in the labour market in Nepal which is very poor.

It really doesn't cost much to make a difference in Nepal. Even £25 will enable us to refurbish a classroom. I am sure that every penny I can raise will be used sparingly and effectively, something which cannot always be said of large faceless charities - So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support, Tony