Well, here we go again.  After a three year hiatus my legs and I have been called out of retirement to have another crack at the Flora London Marathon.  Which means another winter of aching limbs, blisters, bleeding nipples, shin splints, muscle cramps, freezing lungs, complete and utter exhaustion and enough pasta to feed a small Italian town.  I can't wait!

Once again I will be running to raise money for the Family Welfare Association (FWA), the charity that I used to work for, as they seek to reclaim all of the salary they paid me during my employment.

FWA is a wonderful charity that does a lot of excellent work to help children and families in need, and provide emotional, practical and financial support to some of the most vulnerable members of our society.  In doing so, the charity often has to act as a safety net where the welfare state has failed.  For example, FWA gives out a large number of grants each year to enable poorer families to buy essential items that most of us would take for granted, such as beds and cookers.

In addition, FWA operates many family centres and drop in centres, including many community services to assist those with mental health problems.  FWA's Building Bridges services work with young carers, children who find themselves having to look after a parent with a mental health problem, with a view to helping the family stay together where possible.  It is estimated that there are over 150,000 young carers in England alone.

Your donation really will make a great difference to FWA.  Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: the Family Welfare Association 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 extra cost to you.

And remember - running a marathon is bloody hard, so please give generously!

Many thanks for your support.