I'm planning to run the Edinburgh Marathon on May 23rd 2010 in aid of the Sumatran Orangutan Society. I have not run a marathon before, so I will have to do some buff training beforehand.

Once widespread throughout the forests of Asia, orangutans are now confined to just two islands, Sumatra and Borneo. There are two genetically distinct species: the Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) and the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus). The two species show slightly different physical characteristics. Sumatran orangutans have lighter hair and a longer beard than their Bornean relatives, and Sumatran males have narrower cheekpads. Both species are highly endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.

The Sumatran Orangutan Society is dedicated to the conservation of Sumatran orangutans and their forest home. Their international branches raise awareness of the threats facing wild orangutans, and raise funds to support  grassroots conservation projects in Sumatra. Together with a team of committed Indonesian conservationists, they work with local communities living alongside orangutan habitat. They visit schools, plant trees and provide training to help the local people work towards a more sustainable future for their forests.

It would be great if you could sponsor me!