Hello everyone. So wheezing through the Reading half marathon last year somehow hasn't put me off! Partly persuaded, partly pushed, I'm off to London in April to slog out the full 26 miles. What a wally. Anyhoo, straight on to the emotional suckerpunch to draw you in to the background of why I'm doing this...

As many of you know, I'm a teacher and know how important it is for kids to have the opportunity to have a range of experiences. Unfortunately, a number of kids are never in that position, through medical or financial reasons.

Breaks 4 Kids is a charitable fund, run by YHA (Youth Hostel Association). They make it possible for underprivileged kids, who would otherwise be left behind, to be included in trips and activities by funding up to 50% of the cost of their accommodation and food at a YHA centre.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now whatever you can afford. Many thanks again in advance.