In April, we will be taking part in the Marathon des Sables, a 6 day ultramarathon covering 156 miles across the Sahara Desert and widely regarded as the toughest foot race on the planet. Enduring the heat and terrain of the desert, we will be running between 18 -23 miles each day, with the 4th day being even longer at 55 miles. We will be carrying all our kit and food in our backpacks for the duration of the event, with only water and medical support provided. Our nights in the desert will be spent in an open tent called a Bivouac, avoiding snakes, scorpions and camel spiders as best we can!

Not only is this a huge personal challenge that we have both aimed to complete together for many years, it is an opportunity to raise money for charity. We have chosen two great causes that have a lot of personal meaning to us and which hopefully will benefit many people through any donations that are kindly received. These are the two charities we have chosen and why:

Lee's charity:
My chosen charity is the Royal British Legion
Having served in the Queens finest I felt like I wanted to give something back and this is close to my heart.
The RBL do amazing work providing a wealth of services for members of the armed forces and their families.
Every year they lead the Nation in remembering and honouring those who lost their lives in all conflicts from WW1 to the present day as well as those who have served and their families
The RBL need funds to do their great work and as they say every little helps, so if you can spare anything it will be put to good use and be massively appreciated
Thank you very much

Andrew's charity
My chosen charity is the John Eastwood Hospice Trust
My Dad, Rob, passed away in January 2009 after bravely battling bowel cancer for 18 months. He spent the final week of his life at the John Eastwood Hospice who provided care of the highest quality. Their staff showed so much kindness and compassion not only towards my Dad, but all our family during our most difficult time. I have never forgotten this and have continued to see the great service the Hospice provides for our local community.

As the trust relies entirely on fundraising and donations to meet many of its commitments, I want to raise money to support them in ensuring the provision of care for future generations. This will be done in my Dad's memory.
Thank you so much.

Any donations will be received with our absolute gratitude and thanks, along with any support during our training and the race.

Donations to this charity page will be split down the middle, so that 50% goes to each charity.

All the best and thanks
Lee and Andrew