I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored me. I managed to complete the course in 4hours and 35min.
I thoroughly enjoyed the day, the crowd were amazing and seeing my family and friends around the route gave me a big boost.
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This Sunday (26 April) I will be running the London marathon and have decided to raise money for Citizens Advice Bureaux.
Forty two per cent of people have been helped by a Citizens Advice Bureau at some point in their lives, but not a lot of them realise that bureaux are charities in need of public support. From managing debts and enforcing consumer rights, to fighting racial discrimination and finding housing solutions, Citizens Advice Bureaux are there to advise everyone on pretty much any problem you can imagine.
They might not save lives in the way that medical research or disaster relief charities do, but their work can nonetheless be life changing. A lot of people turn to a bureau after making themselves physically ill through worrying about their problems, and some have even contemplated suicide. Just knowing that someone will help them fight their corner is enough to turn the tide.
As well as giving advice, Citizens Advice Bureaux campaign to change the policies that affect our lives for the better, often without us even realising. For example, if a new no fee cash machine or NHS dentist has appeared in your area, chances are Citizens Advice Bureaux have played a part in it. If the downpayment on your rented home is safe in a deposit protection scheme, it's down to Citizens Advice Bureaux. And if you've escaped unfair bank charges thanks to a 'buffer zone' on your Barclays bank account, that's their doing too.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Citizens Advice gets your money faster and, if you’re a taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
So if you can spare some money to make the world a fairer place (and you want to feel good about yourself for the rest of the day) then please sponsor me.
Thanks, Joel
Some of my recent training runs:
Nike 10mile - 1hr 30min
MK Half Marathon - 1hr 57min
Reading Half Marathon - 1hr 56min
Kingston Breakfast 16m Run - 2hr 41min
Flora London Marathon - ??? - place your bets :)
Race/Bib Number: 2643
