As I reach the milestone of turning 40, I’ve decided to take on a huge personal challenge: walking the entire length of the Thames Path from its source to the Thames Barrier—a total of 182 miles—in just 6 days. That’s over 30 miles per day! Along the way, I’ll be raising money for 4 incredible charities, each of which holds a personal significance to me. My goal? To raise £6,000, which will be split evenly between these awesome causes.

The four charities I’m supporting are:

Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation
Farming and rural life have been constants in my life, and it’s well-known that the agricultural world can be a tough and isolating place to work. The suicide rate for male farmworkers is three times the national average. I’ve personally faced my own mental health struggles in the face of farming’s endless challenges. With the government cutting funding to the Farming Resilience Fund—one of the key sources of support for farmers’ mental health, it’s more crucial than ever to back the incredible work of organisations like the Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation. Set up by one of my University peers, this charity focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention within rural and agricultural communities, along with the crucial support networks that help them thrive.

Opening Up
Sport, especially cricket, has been a cornerstone of my life, and I’m passionate about the positive role it can play in mental health. Opening Up aims to tackle mental health issues and prevent suicide through the power of sport, specifically cricket, by running workshops and providing support to clubs across the country. It’s a cause close to my heart, as I’ve seen first hand how sport can unite people and provide a lifeline to those struggling in silence.

Oxford Children’s Hospital (through the Oxford Hospitals Charity)
Nearly 39 years ago, I underwent significant surgery at Oxford Children’s Hospital, and therefore this hospital has always held a special place in my heart. The opportunity to give back to this life-changing institution is something I simply can’t pass up.

Young Epilepsy
Epilepsy has had a profound impact on young lives, none more so than my niece Isabel. I’ve witnessed the immense challenges it brings to both children and their families. The work Young Epilepsy does to support young people living with epilepsy is outstanding, and I am proud to be able to contribute to their vital efforts.

This journey is more than just a personal challenge—it’s a way to give back and make a difference. I’m incredibly grateful for any support you can offer, whether that’s donating or simply spreading the word. Together, we can make an impact that will last far beyond the finish line.