Well, Impossible Dream and her crew set off a week ago but bad weather forced an earlier than expected stop-over in Sicily. The crew are taking the opportunity to catch up on some servicing and repairs, they are due to be on their way again tomorrow.

It's been another busy week as I continue to chase potential sponsors and deal with the mountain of administration that lies behind a challenge of this nature. For example, meetings with potential PR agencies, speaking to production companies about the possibility of a documentary - whilst all the time trying to manage home life and honour my obligations in support of various organisations - I promised myself after Personal Everest that I would not get myself into this predicament again but I guess it must come with the territory - until I actually get the financial backing and, if the project is to maintain momentum, then the responsibility lies on my shoulders to get the work done (I'm not complaining, I think I secretly enjoy it).

On Saturday 25th April, I had the honour of being invited to the launch of Dougal, a custom-built, wheelchair accessible motor-boat platform at Fishbourne Sailability in the Isle of Wight.  It was a great day and you may have seen the write-up in my previous Blog.  I thought you'd like to see a picture of me at the helm.

If you didn't know already, one of my proudest associations is with the Rose Road Association. I've been a Patron of their Change My Life Appeal for just over a year now and they are the most wonderful charity catering for profoundly disabled children. In addition to the kids themselves, one of the strengths of the RRA and what makes the charity so special, is the people who run it; there are many I could mention, but Gary Thomasson who heads up the fundraising department and has been instrumental in raising the profile and funding of the RRA, is one of its stars.  It is very much a local charity so there will be those reading this for whom it has no direct bearing, but please do visit their site www.roseroad.org.uk and support them if you can.  On Tuesday this week, I attended a breakfast meeting for their corporate supporters and, in addition to announcing that they have raised £300,000 towards their £500,000 Change My life Appeal (which is fantastic news), they announced the November date for their annual Crystal Ball at the De Vere hotel in Southampton.  Elaine and I went last year and it was one of the highlights for the year.  This year promises to be even bigger and better.  I know I sound like a salesman, but I really want this wonderful charity to succeed - if you fancy going to the Ball, the details are on their website.  Picture below of me and various supporters - Gary is the guy directly behind me.