Last year I was privileged enough to attend the London Marathon as a volunteer with St John Ambulance. I came away from day determined to run the Marathon myself, and now nearly a year later I am looking forward to the challenge on the 26 April.

This year I am running to raise funds for St John Ambulance. As a volunteer I know how much hard and work time is spent by volunteers across the country every year attended events and ensuring their successful running. In addition to attend public events St John Ambulance is one of the leading providers of first aid training. I am involved in running our local cadet division for 10 - 18 year olds and it is a real joy and encouragement to see young people gaining new skills and putting them into practice. By sponsoring me you will be helping support the work of St John Ambulance in its many forms and I can personally testify to how valuable this week is.

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone for their help, support and encouragement so far. Having never done any running before your encouragement and advice have been invaluable.

So please sponsor me now! Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: St John Ambulance 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.

If you would like to find out more please visit my website www.pquarterman.co.uk. Thank you very much for all your support.

Paul