In September my good friend Claudia and I will be taking on the 21 mile Kiltwalk to raise vital funds for the extraordinary Lung Ha Theatre Company based in Edinburgh.

Lung Ha has been developing and showcasing fabulous theatre by actors with learning disabilities and autism since 1984. The company is a powerhouse of creativity. The members of the group, supported by dedicated staff, devise and perform innovative and award-winning work both alone and in collaboration with other groups. Performances are often hilarious, and moving - and always thought-provoking The actors and musicians in Lung Ha not only perform, they also contribute to writing and devising shows. Some of their recent highlights have been 'Castle Lennox', a specially written musical exploring the subject of institutionalisation in modern-day Scotland; and 'The Table' - a dance and multi-media performance with 'Curious Seed' dance company and 'Lyra' - which recently premiered at the Traverse.

As you may already know, I have an extra reason to support Lung Ha, as my daughter, Liza has been a member of the group for several years. Liza’s involvement with Lung Ha has helped her develop confidence, performance skills, teamwork and long-lasting friendships. I feel proud, inspired and moved watching Liza perform with the rest of the group to a packed theatre - most recently the Traverse. Liza's involvement with Lung Ha also provides me with respite, which is all the more precious because I know that Liza is doing something she really enjoys, with incredible people, in a really supportive and fun environment. Lung Ha is like Liza's second family.

Claudia and I want to offer our support to this incredible arts charity, to help them continue making life-changing difference to people with learning disabilities. Please, if you can, cheer us on by making a donation to this extraordinarily organisation! No donation is too small!

Thank you so much for your support!