I recently had the privilege to visit Newcastle United Foundation's world-class community hub located just five minutes’ walk from St. James’ Park. To say I was blown away by what they do and achieve is an understatement. As a result I am delighted to say (and mildly terrified) that on 24th June I'll be taking part in a three day trek to Mt Toubkal- North Africa's highest peak at 4,167m- in the Moroccan Atlas Mountains, raising much-needed funds for Newcastle United Foundation's disability programmes.

Newcastle United Foundation uses the power of football to connect, motivate and inspire people in our region. Through community, education, health and wellbeing, and sports programmes delivered across Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, Gateshead and County Durham, we strive to improve physical and mental health, boost learning and career prospects and provide life-changing opportunities for everyone – no matter their goals in life.

Training now underway to get me up that mountain but what would help motivate me even more is any much appreciated donations toward this fabulous cause and my fundraising goal.