I am running the Birmingham International Marathon on Sunday, October 15.

It is the city's first marathon and my first marathon.

Running has changed my life and has got me through some tough times recently.

But if it wasn't for having supportive people around me, the running probably would have counted for very little.

Many people do not have the luxury of having a good friends and family network and so need other ways of finding this support.

Similarly, even if you do have this support at home, sometimes you just need someone impartial to talk to.

WHP Counselling service is a small organisation based in Walsall, which offers free counselling and support to anyone who needs it.

It is a vital service and has been and continues to be a lifeline for many local people.

It started off as a service which offered teenage pregnancy support and now has a small team of dedicated counsellors, who can offer counselling support to anyone who needs it.

Like many charities and small organisations, it has suffered funding cuts in recent years and relies heavily on donations.

With your help, I want to show my support for this charity because I know the true value of this service and the importance of keeping it running for many years to come.

Thank you