Dear friends,

Please sponsor me for the Royal Parks half marathon, which I signed up to do last March, whilst at a cosy dinner party with friends, wine glass in one hand, dessert fork in the other. Seemed like a good idea at the time...

The knowledge that the money raised by the run will go to an excellent cause will certainly take the edge off the pain I'm in for on the 12th October (and as a result, on the 13th). Jolt, a charity founded and run by my mother-in-law, Dorothy Dalton, takes disadvantaged and disabled youngsters on a four week trip full of physical and personal challenges and, by doing so, helps build self-belief and independence and gives them a different perspective on life. It's a truly life changing experience for all those participating in the trip, a real journey of a lifetime.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Journey of a Lifetime Trust (JoLt) 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.

Please help me raise funds for Jolt, and spare a thought for me on the 12th!

Emily