Cancer touches many lives, and whether it is through lost loved ones, or people we admire and respect, there are probably few of us that haven't been affected in some way.

In my case it was losing my mother nearly four years ago.

Along with everything else it made me far more health conscious, and to make the most of the time I have before it runs out. So I started running to get in shape and lose weight. As it turns out 6 stone...which was nice.

I also love classical history, watch films like Gladiator and 300 way too much, and as such own the armour and kit of a Greek hoplite. Think more armour and less posing pouch than 300 and you.won't be far off.

So I am combining the two and doing the Beaverbrooks Blackpool 10k Fun Run in Partnership with Trinity Hospice... in full armour, shield, foam weapons and sandals. I think the footwear might take the fun out of it, but at least it is on the flat. Then again no matter how hard it might get it will be as nothing compared to what the people that Trinity helps go through.

Failure is simply not going to be an option.

So please dig deep and donate now.

Anyone interested in doin it themselves, or just in the event in general, can find details at http://www.beaverbrooksfunrun.org.uk/