WE HAVE NOW BUSTED THROUGH OUR ORIGINAL TARGET SO ON THE ADVICE OF EVERYONE WE HAVE SET A NEW TARGET OF £2000. THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE. PLEASE GET ALL YOUR FRIENDS TO JOIN IN!

On 3rd May I am setting off to walk the 850 kilometre Camino pilgrimage route from Irun on the French/Spanish border to Santiago de Compostella. Some people think I have finally lost my marbles as it's a long way to walk and it's certainly not a stroll in the park involving long days, nights in shared dormitories and the ever present possibility of bed bugs! That aside there are compensations in the amazing sights, the camaraderie and the sense of achievement.

Those I know keep asking 'Who are you raising money for?' Initially I was just doing it because it is something I have long thought about and wanted to do. Then I thought 'everyone seems to raise money these days so let's give it a try'.

Choosing a suitable cause is harder than one might think so the best way is to bring it close to home. I have dear friends and neighbours who have a lovely son with Downs Syndrome with complex needs. Jack  attends the wonderful state primary Greenmead School in Wandsworth, south west London. This is a school for children with complex physical and educational needs. Friends of Greenmead is the charitable arm of this school which raises money to help equip physically disabled children with the special equipment and therapy services essential to their development and to enable them to live fulfilled lives. This organisation also supports parents and carers with children who have cerebral palsy or other motor and sensory impairments. Recent Ofsted reports on Greenmead School say 'The quality of care, guidance and support is OUTSTANDING.'

A few words from Tish says it all really "Our son Jack has made huge progress in walking, speech and independence through attendance at this unique school - it would not be possible anywhere else. Greenmead is loved by the children, by the parents and by the staff. However, with less than 70 pupils raising money for important things such as a music therapist or soft seating systems is difficult. Greenmead parents often have huge commitments at home looking after their children and do not always have time to spare to fundraise. What Peter is doing is remarkable and his choosing to support Greenmead is a blessing. I wish him every success and buen camino !"

I am hopeful that we will quickly reach my target of £1,000 - please remember that targets are there to be broken not just achieved! I recently visited the school (there I am in my purple sweatshirt with Jack and Chrissy) and met some of the pupils and teachers and I know that any money raised will be put to good use. I am covering all the costs of the trip so ALL the sponsorship money will go straight to Friends of Greenmead. A big thank you to each and everyone of you for reading and please remember if you are donating to tick the box for GIFTAID which adds considerably to your gift.