Living and working in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, people from the outside might not think food poverty exists in Shakespeare’s birthplace. Through work, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the incredible team at Stratford-upon-Avon Foodbank and seeing firsthand the positive impact of the work they do. We share the common belief that no one in our community should face going hungry.

Every day, they work to provide emergency food and support to local people in crisis—families, individuals, and children who find themselves unable to afford the essentials. More than just providing food, they partner with external advice providers to get people the right support so that they don’t need to use a foodbank again.

So, with that in mind, I’ve decided to step up and step forward. In May, I will be doing a 50K ultramarathon starting in the village of Ilmington, passing through Chipping Campden and Broadway, and ending up in a field outside of Winchcombe. With over 1,000m of elevation, it’s going to be a big challenge, but a worthwhile one.

I know times are tough and money is being stretched more than ever before, but if you fancy donating the price of a coffee to the cause, it would mean so much to the people who use the service.