I have very fond memories of my dad running the London Marathon multiple times during my childhood. It's always been an ambition of mine since excitedly watching from the roadside all those years ago. It's an ambition that was renewed when my father sadly passed away a few years ago as a result of Motor Neurone Disease. I've (very) slowly built up to trying to emulate his efforts and pay a fitting tribute - I might even knock a few minutes off his time?! I know you'll be looking down on me and rooting for me (to be one second slower than you) Dad!

He also absolutely loved a good cause, which brings me nicely to the wonderful...

...Hotel School, an award-winning charity that empowers people who have experienced homelessness and other disadvantages to thrive in the hospitality industry. Their dynamic 10-week programme combines theory, hands-on experience, and industry visits to provide the skills and confidence to land a job and excel in it.

Hotel School started in 2017 and is a joint venture between The Passage (London’s largest voluntary sector homeless resource centre, whose efforts have been central to much of my work over the years) and The Goring Hotel. It is supported by London’s leading hospitality industry and over 50 local businesses - a true coming together of the community. I've been lucky enough to witness some of their tremendous results in turning lives around first hand.