Reality TV star, Spencer Matthews, visited Playskill's Watford-based group yesterday, July 2, ahead of his ‘30 in 30’ fundraising challenge. The warm-up for his Guinness World record-breaking attempt saw Matthews run a marathon from Leicester Square, and crossing the finish line in Watford.

Matthews takes on the challenge of running 30 marathons in 30 days in the Jordanian desert, attempting to break the world record for the most consecutive marathons to ever have been run on sand. He is raising funds for Global’s Make Some Noise, of which Playskill is a chosen charity.

Running from Global’s head office in Leicester Square, visiting charities en route and finishing at Playskill, Spencer met charity beneficiaries to see, first hand, the work of the charities and the positive difference the money raised will have on people’s lives.

Playskill received £55,000 from Global’s Make Some Noise, the majority of which has funded physiotherapy services for disabled children, with the remainder covering every aspect of the lifeline Playskill provides to local families.

Helping hundreds of children and families since 2006, Playskill supports children up to age five with physical disabilities and delays in Hertfordshire to develop their communication, movement and key life skills. The charity provides free therapeutic play sessions, alongside training, advice, support and events for families.

Spencer Matthews said: “Playskill is one of the incredible small charities that Global’s Make Some Noise supports and I’ve seen first hand the amazing work that they do. I heard some of the personal stories from those benefiting from their phenomenal work. It was such a humbling morning and some of the personal stories will drive me through the tougher times in the desert. I’ve never been more motivated to make a difference for these causes. When things get tough in the desert, the memory of who I've met today will inspire me to keep going.”

Niki Michael, Playskill CEO said: “At Playskill we rely entirely on donations to keep our doors open, and to provide our vital service for local families who can often find themselves without any support. Thanks to Global Make Some Noise, we can continue to do that. Spencer’s visit shines a spotlight on Playskill, allowing us to spread the word to families who might need our help. We wish Spencer the very best with his challenge!”