Obviously Care and the NI Children's Hospice are both close to my heart. Both do amazing jobs. I'm honoured to work for Care and be part of an organisation that speaks up for and defends the vulnerable in our society. The NI Children's Hospice provides amazing care and support and we can testify to their love to us and our son Joshua Martin.

With many charities finding things difficult during Covid and unable to hold fundraising events, we felt this half marathon was a great opportunity to raise much needed funds.

I'm hoping to run the 13.1 miles, and it would be wonderful to raise as much money as possible.

I would also encourage others to join in. The event is planned to take place on Saturday 26th September at Shane's Castle, just outside Antrim. If you are very brave you can do a full marathon, half, 10k or 5k. Why not take part and raise sponsorship for 2 great charities. I'm grateful to my son's Youth Worker, Phil Mc Quade for running the half marathon with me.

Thank you in advance for your generosity. All funds will be split evenly between Care and NI Children's Hospice and we will publish the total and update after all donations collected after the run.