On Sunday 25th April, after years of thinking I'd never be able to handle 3+ hours non-stop running (4 mins around an athletics track was the perfect running distance for me!) I will be attempting to become the fifth Milsom to run the London Marathon after being fortunate enough to gain a place through the ballot.

 

This has given me the opportunity to choose the charity I wish to run for, which will be the Marlow Opportunity Playgroup. My very good friend's beautiful daughter, Ellie is a regular attendee to this group and enjoys her three mornings a week there.

 

In brief, the website www.marlowopportunityplaygroup.org.uk will give more details, the Marlow Opportunity Playgroup is primarily for children up to the age of 5 with special needs. They are Ofsted registered and currently have 35 children on their register with 14 members of staff, supported by volunteers providing almost 1:1 support Mon-Fri mornings. The playground regularly relies on donations and grants to employ members of staff, pay rent and provide all of their facilities.  

 

While there are many worthy charities that will be represented during the marathon the Marlow Opportunity Playgroup is local charity (managed by a voluntary management committee) and 100% of the money you pledge will go straight to keeping the Playgroup in operation. Compare this to the larger and more well known charities where a large chunk of money raised is used on high admin and marketing costs.

 

I'm really looking forward to what is surely going to be an amazing day and any sponsorship you pledge will be gratefully received and will make every one of those 42,195 metres worthwhile.

 

Many thanks

 

Paul ' Haile Gebrselassie’ Milsom