I am fundraising for Beat, the UK's eating disorder charity.

This is an issue close to my heart with a personal connection. Eating disorders are so often misunderstood and receive little Government support. Early intervention and help are critical, but sadly support often comes too late when the condition has worsened; “you are not ill enough yet” syndrome!

Beat supports anyone with an eating disorder, their friends and family, as well as professionals working with or worried about an individual in their care.

These serious mental illnesses include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. 1.25 million people in the UK have a diagnosed eating disorder. They affect people of all ages and backgrounds, and up to one in four sufferers are male. Eating disorders cost the UK's economy £16.8 billion each year.