Between 4th and 7th October 2026, I’ll be taking on one of the biggest physical and mental challenges of my life: the MDS 120 Morocco.

I’ll be attempting to cover 120 kilometres across the Moroccan Sahara Desert in three stages, including a long stage of approximately 60 kilometres. I’ll need to be completely self-sufficient (apart from water), carrying around 10kg of essential equipment, plus my water, while sleeping in a basic desert bivouac.

There will be heat, sand, exhaustion, aching legs and possibly some very difficult moments. But every step will be taken for an incredibly important cause: Welcare.

Why Welcare?

Welcare is a family support charity working with children and families across South London and East Surrey, including locally in Greenwich and Bromley.

They support families who may be experiencing financial hardship, social isolation, domestic abuse and other difficult circumstances. Through one-to-one family support, parenting programmes, group sessions and practical assistance, Welcare helps parents and children overcome challenges, rebuild their confidence and create more secure and positive futures.

Their work often takes place quietly in family homes, schools and community buildings, helping families at the point when compassionate, professional support can make an enormous difference.

As someone from the local area, I wanted the effort involved in this challenge to support an organisation making a real difference within our own communities.

A challenge by choice

I have chosen to put myself through the discomfort of running 120 kilometres across the Sahara.

The families supported by Welcare have not chosen the challenges they face.

That thought will be powerful motivation when the distance, heat and weight of my backpack begin to take their toll. Every donation will give those difficult kilometres a greater purpose and help Welcare continue supporting children and parents when they need it most.

I have spent months preparing through long-distance runs, mountain races, back-to-back training days and sessions carrying a weighted pack. The challenge will still push me well beyond my comfort zone, but knowing that people are supporting Welcare alongside me will help carry me towards the finish line.

Please support my challenge

Whether you can donate £1, £5, £20, £50 or more, every contribution matters. Together, those donations can help Welcare provide practical and emotional support, strengthen families and give more children the opportunity to enjoy safe, secure and confident childhoods.

Please donate whatever you can and share this page with your friends, family and colleagues.

120 kilometres. Three stages. One Sahara Desert. One very worthwhile cause.

Thank you so much for your support.

James