I am running my first half marathon to raise money for Manchester Cares.

Loneliness is the biggest problem of our time. The Office of National Statistics has described Britain as the “loneliness capital of Europe” and a social isolation epidemic is destroying lives. Research shows that loneliness is a major public health concern and the risk of death for people who are isolated is 31% higher than people with good social connections.

According to Age UK a million older people have not spoken to anyone in the last month. And every day eight "lonely funerals" take place, which are funded by local authorities because there are no friends or family to pay for them. Social networks across communities are breaking down and essential human contact is lost.

That’s why the work of Manchester Cares is so important. As a volunteer I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable work they do bringing people together, building the confidence of communities and providing a lifeline for people that go weeks without seeing anyone.

They are building resilience one street at a time, providing people with the opportunity to share time, laughter and new experiences in order to make them feel part of their community.

Manchester has a strong history of community but in today's anxious and atomised world we're losing sight of this vital heritage.

On October 14th I'll be running the Manchester half marathon to help continue the essential work that Manchester Cares does.

Please give me your support.