RACE UPDATE: I made it ... just. A combination of strapping, Nurofen Extra and some great tunes got me round the course in 54 minutes 59 seconds. Not bad for an old, fat bloke with 2 broken ribs (just diagnosed!!)

Many thanks for all of your fantastic donations.

TRAINING UPDATE: Following 12 weeks of relatively consistent training I was on course for the magical 50 minute barrier ... and then disaster. With only 8 days to go before the event I have managed (through a combination of wet grass, clumsiness and the wrong shoes) to fall and bruise 2 ribs. I can barely put one foot in front of the other, and as for running ... Fingers crossed that a combination of painkillers, adrenaline and a killer iTunes playlist can get me round the course in something like a respectable time!!

Thanks for dropping by and visiting my fundraising page - I feel completely humbled by the response so far .. thank you!! 

A short while ago my youngest son Max (the happy chappy I'm holding in the photo) was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The support we have received since the diagnosis has been fantastic, and I have been wracking my brains thinking what I could do to give something back.

And then it hit me ... why not convert my highly-tuned athletic prowess into cold, hard cash.

As a first step, I am running the BUPA London 10,000 on the 25th May 2009 in order to raise money for the National Autistic Society. It would be great if you could spare a few pounds to help such a worthy cause that is now so close to my heart. There is a good chance that my wonderful employer (T-Mobile for those who can't keep up with the merry-go-round that is my career) will match anything I raise, so please give what you can.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: National Autistic Society 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.

So please sponsor me now!