I've had a rush of blood to the head and agreed to run the Great North Run for Traidcraft. It's a fantastic cause, dedicated to fighting poverty through fair trade - find out more at www.traidcraft.org.uk.

Unfortunately, I'm not a fantastic runner - I've never done the GNR before, and in fact (not sure I should admit this), I've never run more than 8 miles before - well, not since I was a little kid chasing a football anyway....  So, your support for the cause is greatly appreciated, but will also help me to motivate myself on my training schedule - after all, I'm probably in the veteran age bracket!

Here's how to sponsor me. 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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please make a donation and help me make it through my first half marathon!

Cheers, John.