Who am I?

So, I'm Mark and Im 59 years old; I have been a keen runner over the course of many years. I have been running ever since I was a child of 11 taking part in the county cross country championships. I currently run with Norfolk Gazelles and am a member of the coaching team. I regularly run 30 miles a week and take part in many local races. I work at Sportlink in Taverham Norwich, a sports specialist providing people who are interested in running, fitness and sport with footwear, sportswear and equipment and Im sure the team will support me on this journey.

Why The London Marathon?

Strangely as a long-standing runner, I've never actually run a marathon with 20 miles being my longest run. I'm 59 years old now and although Im still fit and healthy, time is not on my side. I thought it would be terrific to run the London Marathon as this is just after my 60th birthday and what a great year to say I've completed this!

Why the Sue Lambert Trust?

Sue Lambert Trust provides counselling, therapy services and support groups for people in Norfolk who have experienced the trauma of sexual assault, sexual abuse and /or domestic violence. This kind of abuse is often in my opinion brushed under the carpet; it most certainly was not discussed when I was growing up, going under the radar. Thankfully, the Sue Lambert Trust exists to provide a safe, respectful and welcoming space for anyone to recover, heal and build resilience following their trauma of sexual or domestic abuse, whether it occurred months or decades ago. Both men and women can be affected by abuse and are often stigmatised for very different reasons, I feel as a man I am part of a demographic that fails to understand just how big the issue is and its good to raise awareness and to show that its ok to talk about issues that affect so many lives.

The Trust is the only charity of its kind in Norfolk, with bases in Norwich and Great Yarmouth, therefore it fitted my criteria of running to support a vital local charity. And if taking part in the London Marathon helps raise money to support even one person to transform their life, then the training and hard work will be worth it. The money raised will go towards providing therapy and support services, delivered by professional, fully qualified counsellors. Counsellors who are there for people when they feel ready to start talking and begin the process of rebuilding their lives.

Please do donate if you can and Im confident with your support we can meet my fundraising pledge in turn providing the Sue Lambert Trust with Funds that will help them continue to deliver their imperative work.

To find out more about the trust, please go to www.suelamberttrust.org