Thank you for supporting the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. I have been lucky enough to get a place aboard one of the boats participating in the Royal Ocean Racing Club Sevenstar Round Britain and Ireland Race, which starts on August 7. Funnily enough, the slightly daunting prospect of this 1,860-mile, non-stop race prompted the thought this might be a good time to raise some money for the RNLI.

Seriously, though, the skill and experience of Skipper Brian Thompson, boat captain Jonny Malbon, and crew Nick 'Nobi' Black, Will Oxley, Jonathan McKee and Mark Thomas should ensure that - God willing - we complete the course without mishap. I aim to provide ballast and publicity and pull on ropes when told to.

The RNLI is a very good cause and I hope you will give generously. Doing so via this website means that your donation will be boosted by the basic rate of tax which will be reclaimed from HM Revenue & Customs without the need for any action on your part.