Hi, and thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

My name is Richard Girdlestone and I'll be running the London Marathon this April to raise funds for the Wessex Neurological Centre's 'Smile4Rich' Appeal. No, the 'Rich' in Smile4Rich is not me, but the Wessex Neurological Centre was responsible, in 2005, for saving the life of my very good friend and colleague, Gdsm Dave Gratton. Dave received horrific injuries from which he was not expected to survive but, thanks to the skill and dedication of staff at the WNC, he did. Whilst his life has changed forever, fate has a way of showing you just how much we rely on others when the chips are down, and I want to show my gratitude for the fact that he still has a life by raising funds for this fantastic centre.

As you can see, I'm in the Army, and have been for 18 years (yes, I know I look much too young to have been in for that time). The last 3 years have been a busy time, but I've been determined to do something at the earliest opportunity to thank everyone who helped save Dave's life, and this is it! Hopefully this will be the first of many things I can do in the future to help others less fortunate than I've been.

So, please be generous in your support - every penny helps and will go toward helping others, like Dave, in the future.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Wessex Neurological Centre Trust 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.

Thank you for your support!