You thought that Paula Radcliffe's quest for gold at the Beijing Olympics was THE athletics story of the summer - how wrong you were!  I, Angus McLean, am coming out of retirement to compete in this year's Great North Run - the world's largest half marathon. 

I first ran the GNR in 2003 and since then have completed both the New York and London Marathons.  This year I am running to raise funds for The National Association for Colitis and Crohn's Disease "NACC". 

Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease are both forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).  There are 180,000 people in the UK who suffer from them.  In both conditions the wall of the bowel becomes swollen, inflamed and ulcerated.

The causes of UC and Crohn's are unknown and there is no cure.

I was diagnosed with UC in summer 2006 and am keen to do my bit to raise awareness and funds to support those affected and finance research into a cure.

You can find out more about IBD and NACC by following this link http://www.nacc.org.uk

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The National Association for Colitis and Crohn's Disease - NACC gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thanks for your time and generosity.

Angus McLean