By far my biggest physical challenge EVER, in April 2023 I will be joining #TeamGuideDogs and running the London Marathon - That's right, all 42.1km! A year ago I found Park Run (5km) a real struggle!!!

Training is well and truly underway (up to 1/2 marathon distance and time). The Guide Dogs Regional Centre are local to me and I am lucky to see the amazing work their team and dogs do everyday. I have pledged to raise £4,000 for the charity and am so motivated to do so.

I will be combining my two major passions, animals and artwork in raising the majority of the funds. (I know you were thinking that running was one of the two, but that would be a massive lie...). Window murals, pet portraits and other cool competitions coming your way as I will endeavour to reach the target (and finish the marathon).

THE FUNDRAISING COMPETITIONS ARE:

1. Win a bespoke hand painted Pet Portrait for yourself or a loved one. Value up to £395...

2. Win a Window Mural for your Business. Value up to £595...

3. Win a Rustic Food Company Breakfast for the WHOLE OFFICE!!! Value up to £250...

To enter, all you have to do is put your chosen entry choice in the comments section. 

Name: Joe Bloggs. Message: Good Luck and I am entering in the Pet Portrait Competition.

All winners will be announced at the London Marathon on my Instagram Page @alicemayartwork (Sunday 23rd April 2023)

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My biggest motivation for training in the cold is knowing that upon completion of the marathon, I will be opening up my home to foster a Training Guide Dog... I am so excited!!!

If you're local to Leamington Spa you can find my latest Guide Dog inspired collection at my cafe 'Rustic Food' - all updates on my marathon journey will be shared on my Instragram should you wish to follow - @alicemayartwork. Any advice, support or donations are greatly appreciated.

If you too are a dog lover but your lifestyle means you cannot look after a dog full time, then perhaps you could become a Training Dog Foster too?