In January 2014 I will be taking on a huge physical challenge, even by my standards! In the 7 days from Sunday 26th January to Saturday 1st February 2014, I will be running a total of 250 miles and visiting 40 football clubs across England to help raise funds for Women's Aid and encourage football clubs, players and fans to unite in the fight against domestic violence. 

It has been quite funny watching the reaction on people's faces when I explain what it is that I am setting out to do. Mainly because it makes me think "oh my gosh I am actually doing this...ahhh what am I doing?!"

I have been warned by various experts how much it is going to hurt, the amount of training I am going to have to put in, and the toll it will take on me both mentally and physically. I know that it is 100% worth it though. I don't want any woman or child to live in fear, worthlessness projected on them through another person's cowardly actions. Knowing how that feels is motivation enough.

I came up with the idea of this Challenge last year whilst trying to think of a way to engage both sexes in standing up against domestic abuse and educate on what is so commonly referred to as a 'women's issue'. Women and men need to speak out together to end domestic violence and set an example for the next generation that will make up our society. 

So I'm using the power of two sports that I love - running and football - on a mission to inspire both men and women to be the best they can be through their own self-worth, and to respect their relationship with themselves, their partner and their children. I'm hoping that my Challenge will be the start of something bigger to kick abuse out of the home, and out of society.

Please do donate as much as you can to help me achieve my goal. Knowing that I have your support behind me will help me push through the pain and will carry me through to the finish line!

Charlie’s Big Challenge is sponsored by Alpari FX Trading, global foreign exchange broker and principal sponsor of West Ham United FC. By covering the costs of organising my Challenge, Alpari's support means that all of the money I raise will go directing supporting survivors of domestic abuse. 

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. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you,

Charlie x