In light of my youthful good looks and sunny disposition, it may come as a surprise to many of you to learn that 2009 will witness the advent of my 5th decade here on earth!

Never one to succumb gracefully to the hands of time, I have decided to commemorate my new found status as a quadragenerian by donning my thermals, harnessing up some huskies and, with a good compass in hand, setting out on a 200km journey, sledding across the frozen Arctic tundra.

In doing this,I will be raising money for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, as they continue working to provide care and shelter for over 12,000 stray and homeless animals every year.

Aside from polar bears and hazardous terrain, my journey will require me to do battle with temperatures of as low as -25C and surviving on freeze dried meals. In preparation, I will be forgoing mince pies and the other Christmas lovelies and entering in to a strict training regime over the next few months.

If you would like to support me in my mission then please click on the link below and sponsor me now!

Love from Kirsty and all the dogs & cats at Battersea.