Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. You can also donate via a text message from your mobile phone. Simply send a text saying ‘JEZG74' followed by £1, £3, £5 or whatever you are able to afford to the number 70070. For example, sending ‘JEZG74 £5‘ would result in a £5 donation to Mustard Tree. Text messages to 70070 are free from all networks.

I have said for a while that I'd like to run a marathon before I turn 40, and time is running out on that front. So this is the one for me.

As for Mustard Tree, I've worked there for over 4 years now, and while the demand for our services continues to rise, as a charity we are facing very tough times indeed. Over the coming months it will be a huge challenge just to keep delivering our core services of food, clothing, furniture and training to those struggling against poverty, homelessness and marginalisation.

Therefore my own fundraising efforts towards a cause I thoroughly believe in are more important than ever. I'd be humbled and delighted if you are able to make any kind of donation by way of sponsoring my marathon attempt.

Here is part of a statement issued by Adrian Nottingham, CEO of the Mustard Tree:

Over the past three months it has become apparent that the Mustard Tree, in common with many small charities, is going to be facing a very challenging 2013. The demand and need for our services, together with the cost of providing them, has increased substantially but our income remains at best static. To give you just one example of the challenge, in November 2011 we gave out 90 food parcels. In November 2012, using the same criteria, we gave out 195!

...The Mustard Tree has benefited enormously in the past from a wide range of individuals, groups and corporate friends and supporters, who have given of their time, money and resources in partnership for the benefit of the poor. We are grateful for every evidence of support in the past, but perhaps more than ever we need help to continue this important and transforming work; we value every offer we receive.

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.