March 2008 ‘Marathon des Sables’ James Matthews (Michael’s brother) competed and finished the gruelling Marathon des Sables involving running 245.3km over six days through the Sahara desert carrying everything needed, bar water.

‘SEVEN DEADLY SINS HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA’ Adam and Nina Mackie (Michael’s sister and brother- in-law) organised a fundraising Charity event in Switzerland. The party was held in two circus big-tops that were built on the shore of Lake Geneva.

Cancun Half Ironman Five competitors took part and raised money for the Michael Matthews Foundation.