Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

In September I'm running my first half marathon in aid of Afghan Connection, specifically their program to build schools and cricket pitches for children across the country.

In the words of Sarah Fane of Afghan Connection:

"The Afghan cricket story is the one story that gives everyone hope.  I have literally just been in the middle of nowhere up in the north of Afghanistan, and everyone was talking about the Afghan team. They see that these guys have come from refugee camps and done well, and that gives them hope.

"Nobody ever sees the positive side of Afghanistan. They are so determined to build a better future for themselves. There has been such a thirst for education in the country. At most of the schools we build the kids who go to them don't know how to read or write, so there is a whole new generation learning to be literate. The schools bring education and the cricket brings sheer enjoyment, and gives them a childhood which they never really have."

This from an article from the Guardian's Andy Bull:

"Last year Fane, Raees and the Afghan team held a cricket camp for 50 children. 12,000 people turned up. 12,000. The fans started following the Afghan team bus to the site from 20km away. Boys and girls who came without even owning a pair of shoes left with a full set of whites."

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.

Thanks for your help and your consideration,

David