The summer. The perfect time to sit around in beer gardens, parks or on beaches not doing very much. Or the perfect time to be training for a half marathon.

I will be doing the Great North Run on Sunday 10th September to raise money for the Addison's Self Help Group. Addison's Disease is a rare endocrine condition where the adrenal glands cease to function. It needs life-long, daily treatment with steroid medication. The ADSHG works to support people with adrenal failure and their families, and to promote better medical understanding of the potentially life-threatening condition.

For those of you who don't know my Dad has Addison's Disease and has worked closely with the ADSHG for a number of years. This will be my sixth half marathon but the first time in three years I've run for charity so anything you could donate would be very much appreciated.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanks for your time and, hopefully, for your donation.