When people hear the word addiction, they automatically think the worst, but what they don't realise is that most addictions happen as a result of things like severe childhood trauma or abuse, PTSD, coping with chronic pain as a result of serious injury, mental health issues, grief or loneliness - the sorts of things that could happen to any one of us at some stage in our lives.

People with addictions are hurting physically, emotionally and psychologically and they just want the pain to stop.

Recovery Connections supports people across the North East of England who have been affected by drugs, alcohol and other addictions.

The projects they run, and the support they give provide hope to people in recovery from addiction, and their families.

Recovery Connections aim to educate, inspire, empower and support everyone affected by substance use to make sure their recovery is for the long term, and they get lasting positive change in their life.

In May this year I will be doing the 18.5 mile 3 Peaks Challenge up and down Cat Bells, Walla Crag and Latrigg in Keswick to raise money for Recovery Connections.

Please help me to help them to continue the great work they do by making a donation. Many thanks for your support.