In April 2016 I had a horrible bike accident whilst training for an Ironman triathlon - basically I hit a pothole as I rode down a hill and landed face first in the tarmac. I will spare you the details but suffice to say it was enough for the paramedic to call in the Great North Air Ambulance who picked me and got me safely to the RVI Newcastle.  I've had surgery, reconstruction and countless dental hospital visits and I'm indebted to everyone who helped me.   

Sitting the helicopter I saw a notice saying that the service is funded by charity donations and that's scary - what if they weren't there? What would happen?  So I decided to raise some money somehow. 

I love triathlon but the idea of getting back on a bike let alone racing was terrifying but the idea that I might be able to do something to help pushed me on. Facial injuries are horrible too as it robs you of your identity and confidence and I've had a pig of a year so I trained to get back to "normal".

So that brought me to Ironman UK in Bolton in July 17. For those who haven't heard of this madness its a triathlon but a biggie - 2.4 mile open water swim in a cold lake, 112 miles of Lancastrian hills on the bike and then a marathon. No rests and all against the clock with cut offs if you're not fast enough when you're kicked out of the race. And all within 17 hours. Doddle? 

I was petrified I wouldn't get through it and would freeze up on the bike  so I thought I'd ask for donations after rather than sponsorship before.

But I did it. OK I climb hills faster than I descend them which makes it harder but I did it. And I'm so proud of myself (which takes a lot for me to say). I crossed that finish line and I've not stopped smiling my lop-sided grin since.

So if you're even slightly impressed if you could donate even the price of a coffee or a pint to the Great North Air Ambulance you can help keep this vital service flying - not just for cyclists but for heart attack victims, people in rural Northumberland, walkers, car drivers and anyone else who needs them.

If you want to see photos of my journey there are some attached but some are of the injures (post surgery not crash footage!) so you can see how far I have come and you understand my gratitude. So be warned and don't open them if you don't like injuries!