**Update 25th January - to help me through the last 7 days, my good friend Chee-Z has recorded a video of support**

Yes, you read that correctly. I, Jonathan 'Turophile' Waddingham, am giving up cheese for the whole of January.

The last few years I've given up alcohol for January, but that was getting easy - this year I wanted a real challenge and remembered this inspiring tale I wrote about a while back. Those of you who know me well, will agree that, for me at least, this is the equivalent effort of running a marathon or taking part in a triathlon (ish).

I'm raising money for Good Food Matters, because they work with people who aren't as fortunate as I am to help them enjoy food and learn all about the wonders it holds. They do this by educating young people and children in Croydon on how to cook as well as providing information on nutrition, health and wellbeing. Here's a slideshow of what they do.

A wise man once told me that cooking for someone else is an expression of love for that person. So here I am, giving you an opportunity to help people express some love through the wonders of food.

What are you waiting for?

Make no bones about it, this will be as hard as the rind of an out-of-date gouda and as intense as the nose of a good stilton. In my fridge currently reside 4 of my top 5 European cheeses, but I can't eat them. Only 5 days in and it's killing me!

Just think of me as you chuckle with your truckles. Oh, and the best cheese-pun left on the page will get a prize. It might be a hug, a slice of cheese, a drink, or just the knowledge that you've made me laugh... ;-)

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.