This is the first time I have run a marathon and I now realise that it is a huge challenge. It is going to be very painful, so please dig deep. I am running for Age UK, whose purpose is to improve later life. 700,000 older people say that they often or always feel lonely and a quarter report that their quality of life has deteriorated over the last year. The money we raise will help Age UK to keep thousands of older people in our communities healthy, safe and connected.

Just £5 pays for a hot meal at an Age UK centre, £14 pays for a week's worth of Good Day calls, keeping an older person connected and £72 could pay for a handyperson visit, to provide practical help and advice on home safety and security.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.