At school when sports day came round I was always the javelin thrower or the shot putter. I was as chunky then as I am now, and could not run to save my life. Last year my 5 year old son wanted to run a mini mile and so I had to do it with him. I surprised myself with how I managed, and decided there and then that I was going to challenge myself at the ripe old age of 41 to start running.

Four months later and I run three times a week, having completed the Couch to 5k programme. It isn't easy by any stretch of the imagination and I look so red and exhausted that people who see me often shout encouragement or even give me a round of applause! 

I signed up to the Royal Berks 10k because I am passionate about the work that Dingley's Promise does with children with special education needs and disabilities (SEND) in the early years. I believe that every child should get the best start in life, and the best chance to succeed - whatever that means for them.

I wouldn't want to take on the huge challenge of running 10k without an amazing cause to focus on - so please sponsor me to encourage me to that finish line and to help children with SEND and their families.

Thank you! xxx