In April 2026, I am taking on the legendary Marathon des Sables in the Sahara desert, running/walking 270km divided into 6 stages over 7 days. The longest stage, over 2 days, is 100km. It is a journey of self-sufficiency, carrying everything I need for the 7 days except a tent and water. This is by far the toughest challenge I have taken on and will push me physically, mentally and emotionally. But having just turned 50, I decided this was the year! I am excited - admittedly with a little trepidation - to be part of such an incredible adventure in such wilderness, to experience the camaraderie, and to see how far I can push myself. My training is currently ramping up with a 2-day target training event in February - The Pilgrim Challenge - 106km along the North Downs Way. The key is to build my endurance without picking up injury….

I am fundraising for two charities - Harpenden Mencap, a local UK charity, and World Bicycle Relief, a global charity. Supporters can choose how they wish to donate. All donations are very gratefully received - thank you so much in advance.

Harpenden Mencap is a local Mencap charity doing incredible work to support and care for adults with learning disabilities in Harpenden and the surrounding area, enabling them to live happy, fulfilled lives. Their mission is to build a community that values learning-disabled people and supports them to be active citizens through supported living services, clubs and activities, and lifelong learning with practical skills for everyday independence. Harpenden is where I grew up, and still home to my sister. The work of Harpenden Mencap has a very tangible impact on the lives of adults in the community, but they rely on charity fundraising to meet the needs of their work.

World Bicycle Relief empowers people and communities in developing countries with bicycles. I have been inspired to fundraise for this charity through my recent cycling expedition in Africa. When crossing through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania, we shared the roads and tracks with many local cyclists, many on Buffalo bikes loaded high with all manner of goods. These bikes are designed to withstand the harsh terrain, carry heavy loads and require minimal maintenance. In rural communities far from the nearest road, distance is a barrier to attending school, receiving healthcare, delivering goods to market and other critical services. World Bicycle Relief partners with communities to deliver Buffalo bikes to empower communities of students, health workers, and entrepreneurs in rural regions with life-changing mobility. World Bicycle Relief prioritises over 70% of bikes for girls and women, recognising that lifting women will change the world.