A few weeks ago I returned from Dagenham ( East London). I had been living there for ten days - filming for Channel Four - a new programme called the Secret Millionaire. (it will be aired around the 2nd or 3rd Jan at 9pm.

Crikey - what an experience -  a life changing event  - I am totally lucky that I got the chance to be a part of the programme - I have learnt so much and I am able to make better decisions.

My job was to live undercover in a very disadvantaged area - discovering people who I felt I could help - and then working out what I could do to help. A4e (and me) have always done loads to financially help others - but this time it was personal - it was the most difficult thing I had attempted. Watch the programme - I spent a lot of my time crying! Crying because I so wanted to get it right - not offend anyone - do something special - and crying because at times I was overcome with the racial hatred and dog eat dog atmosphere I met in some of the places I went to. I felt beaten up by the hatred and the blame and the hopelessness of some of the people.  

Amongst all this however were the gems - people who are without doubt the beacons of light in their community. People who materially have nothing - but personally have everything. Invariably the happiest people I met were the ones who were educating themselves and/or volunteering and taking an active part in the community. It seemed it really was the answer.

I worked hard while I was there - cleaning men's urinals, making and serving in a great pie and mash shop, bar work - and met hundreds of people - gently encouraging them to share their story.

I found some remarkable people to offer help to - and I found some new mates.

Can't give away too much....