Who doesn't love a hug?

Even the British give them these days. Big ones, quick ones, family ones.

Every hug counts.

Each one tops up our humanity, reminding us that no matter how uncertain the world is, we can still give and receive kindness, and create a sense of community in a single act.

I've always been a big hugger. So when I read that the record had recently been broken for the most hugs in a minute, I knew instantly:

"I can beat that."

Without knowing it, I've been practising for this my whole life.

The current record - set by TV's Sam Thompson live on Good Morning Britain earlier this year - stands at 88 in a minute.

So I'm going to have to hug at least 89 people! That’s 0.674 seconds or less for each hug!

And I can’t do it alone, I'm going to need help!

If you want to hug me (quickly) and would like to be part of my attempt, please put your name down on this google form: https://forms.gle/4gYqCeC7P3a3cJaeA

If you want to see how I'm getting along preparing, you can find me on Instagram @huglifeldn

Spreading the love

Of course, some people need hugs more than others. And hugs come in different forms.

I've been privileged to help out with a couple of charities that give metaphorical hugs to people who deserve them as much as anyone, but who sadly sometimes go hug-less.

Through the amazing ShowerBox and Quaker Social Action's 'Turn A Corner' mobile library, homeless people in London are able to access vital, humanising resources.

Hosted by the wonderful St Giles-in-the-Fields church every Saturday morning, a community of people come together to share the sort of practical kindnesses that really make a difference.

So I'm hugging for them too. And if you can find a couple of quid to support their amazing work, there's a big hug heading your way!

Find out more about these wonderful organisations on Instagram

@showerboxldn

@quakersocialaction

@stgilesfields