On 4th May 2008 I took part in the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run, a 10km race around the streets of Edinburgh.

To give me an added incentive to complete the training and the race, I ran for a charity called Practical Action. Practical Action works alongside poor people throughout the world to identify and implement practical, sustainable technologies that people can use to improve their lives.

For example, they have worked with communities in Kenya and Nepal to design and test a smoke hood which can remove up to 75% of the smoke from inside people's homes. This will help to tackle the fact that 1.6 million people die from the effects of indoor smoke inhalation every year.

Many thanks to everyone who has already sponsored me - I'm delighted with the total I've raised and thanks to your generosity Practical Action will be able to continue with the great work they do.

Although I've completed my run now, if you still want to sponsor me and support Practical Action's work, you can still do so.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Practical Action will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Many thanks for your support.

Alan