Ian's Mayday Mile

I’m taking on the Mayday Mile challenge to support RNLI volunteers

There is no greater calling than risking your own life to save the life of someone you've never met before. To do this as your job is admirable; to do it as a *volunteer* is nothing short of humbling. The crews and lifeguards of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution are these life-savers. They do this every day. Around the clock. Without question.

My late father was a big supporter of the RNLI. He grew up in a fishing village on the coast of Scotland, and saw first-hand the integral part of the community that the lifeboats were. He saw them save lives, saw them when they couldn't manage it, and saw what happened when they themselves couldn't return from the sea. My dad's no longer with us, but I've taken to supporting the charity in his memory. And their latest fundraiser seems custom-designed for me.

The RNLI is raising money this May by having people get sponsorship to walk one mile each day. Walking is a low-impact exercise, and as well as the benefits of fresh air and cardiovascular activity, also aids positive mental health. By the end of the month fundraisers will have taken in 31 miles. As many of you know, I'm already a keen walker so I *will* be going over the 31 mile line; however, I've challenged myself to beat my previous personal best and clock 400 miles in May. I've crunched the figures, it's do-able. Not easy, but do-able.

And so, I'm asking for your help. I know very few people are having a great time of things in 2024, but any money you can spare for this endeavour will be gratefully received by an organisation who would save the lives of you and your family in a heartbeat, were the worst to happen.

This is your chance to be part of something amazing (the RNLI saving lives).

And part of something ridiculous (me walking 400 miles in a calendar-month).

Thank you,

Ian.

Oh, and don't forget to check the box for Gift Aid.