Well, finally I have succumbed and taken on the challenge of a marathon. Inspired by family and friends who have been down this route before, I seem to have chosen the worst winter in memory to carry out my training!

To make the event truly memorable and help keep up my motivation right to the line I am raising money for Guide Dogs for the Blind.  I'm sure you are already aware of what this charity does - it provides mobility and freedom to blind and partially sighted people.  They also campaign for the rights of people with visual impairment, educate the public about eye care and fund eye disease research.

Having witnessed at my own work the difference a Guide Dog can make, I'd like to ask you to dig deep so that this worthy cause can continue.

As a dog lover myself, I know the joy that the companionship of a dog can bring. My own dog Ziggy is keeping me company on the dark mornings and cruising past me on the hills, wondering what all the huffing and puffing is about.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.