I know you’ve all heard it a million times before……..: “please sponsor me, I’m running  {insert crazy distance here} ”, & I’ve never set out to raise money for charity before, however, this event will be my 1st non-stop 100 miler in an area I love to run in - The Lake District &, being one of the most popular races on the ultra-marathon calendar (who would have thought) it sold out within 9 minutes. The only way to secure a place was via a charity place for a little known charity called EPIC KIDZ. So there you have it, total honesty – I don’t want your money but they could sure do with it.

I’ve always been lucky enough to be able to access sport and exercise where and when I've wanted to (thanks to an accommodating wife and family who don’t mind trekking up the UK motorways to fetch me & sleeping in Travelodge’s while I sleep in ditches) but there are many children who don't have such easy access. Epic Kidz, the charity who are “sponsoring” my place, help children to take part in activities that would otherwise be unattainable, especially those children in the areas that the race passes through to give back to the communities that support/put up with the event. Grants over the past few years have included funds towards replacement of a Scout groups stolen trailer enabling their summer camps to go ahead, support to a girl competing as a triathlete, who otherwise would not be able to afford the equipment required for the level she competes at, & more recently to a primary school to help toward building a running track for the kids & community to safely run their daily mile throughout the school year. It would be great if you could help me support their work.

The Lakeland 100 'Ultra Tour of the Lake District' is the most spectacular long distance trail race, which has ever taken place within the UK. The circular route encompasses the whole of the Lakeland fells, includes in the region of 6300m of ascent and consists almost entirely of public bridleways and footpaths. The event is continuous in nature, competitors don't have to stop or sleep on the route and the winners are generally expected to finish close to the 20 hour mark. The climb, descent, rugged terrain, darkness and tricky navigation generally ensure a 40-50% failure rate over the 100 mile course. But, for each mile run, I'd be delighted if you could sponsor 10 pence, which means a donation of £10 if I successfully complete the circular course starting and finishing in Coniston (via Keswick). Do please pledge more if you can - so bets are open as to whether I'll be a crumpled heap after 50 miles regardless. I know we all have friends raising money for amazing charities for events from 5K to Ultra Marathons so any donations will be gratefully received.

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