Dear Friends,

Completed the 30th London Marathon in 6 hours 51.33 and my 10th since 2000 (unable to run last year due to a broken ankle - left malleolus) for St Joseph's Hospice, Hackney. The run was fine for 9 miles, but at Surrey Quays, the ankle went on strike, and thenceforward it was a question of limping on my right foot (with the inevitable blisters!) for the remaining 17.2 miles!

I ran for my family, and particularly in memory of my beloved mother, Angela, who died last November and my ancestral aunt, Mary Aikenhead, a brave lady who founded the Sisters of Charity (who help run St Joseph's today).

I am pleased to announce that my legs are slowly recovering, but I won't be attempting further marathons!

Please help me to realise my target this year of £5,000 (thus far, £3,511.13). The Wells Journal printed a nice article (see above). Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. This year I was selected by ballot which means that St Joseph's do not have to pay for me, and your money goes directly to them.

If you prefer not to donate on-line, you can make cheques payable to St Joseph's Hospice and send to me at Flat 43, Homechime, Priory Road, Wells, Somerset BA5 1SH email: david@akomcrosswords.com tel. 01749 678 272

Kind regards to you, the Wells Journal and the good people of Wells and many thanks for your huge and generous support thus far,

David Akenhead