I did it! 1 hour, 51 minutes and 2 seconds. We had a great weekend and finished relatively unscathed. I'd like to thank those of you who have generously donated. Everyone at MS Yoga Therapy Rossendale is very appreciative. With cash donations in addition to the above online pledges, we have so far raised over £700 - again, thank you all.

As some of you know, I have enjoyed running as a hobby for many years. I have taken part in many local runs and have gradually increased my distances. In 2012 I even manged to run the first Manchester Marathon, despite extreme weather conditions of driving rain and sub-zero temperatures. My daughter, Holly, is currently studying at Newcastle University and we decided to use the opportunity to attempt the challenge of the Great North Run.

For the first time, I have decided to raise funds for a charity. My partner, Olivia Rigby, is involved with a small, local charity, MS Yoga therapy, Rossendale, which provides weekly yoga classes for people with Multiple Sclerosis. Having heard the stories of the trials and tribulations of her students and the benefits they gain from the sessions, I felt it was an important cause that needed supporting.

For more details on the group, please go to their facebook page: MS Yoga Therapy, Rossendale

The training for the run is currently going well. I am training four times a week but now that the football season has started I think it's going to be more of a struggle to fit everything in. I am, however, confident that if Bolton's opening season lack of form continues, I will be ready for when the call up comes!!!

Everyone at MS Yoga Therapy find the classes they attend vital for keeping their symptoms to a minimum and for helping them stay away from hospitals, doctors surgeries and physios. They really are extremely grateful for your support in helping fund the yoga sessions which helps them manage their own condition and maintain their independence.

I appreciate your support and I am sure it will spur me on to run a faster time than Holly! Thank you.