Most people who know me will also know that my Dad died in January this year after a six month battle with lung cancer.  During his illness he received a high quality of care from the Palliative care team and the Hospice itself, both part of Salisbury Hopsicecare Trust.  The team were also incredibly supportive to me and my Mum and did everything they could to be understanding, honest and compassionate.  Dad died in the Hopsice on 27 January and right to the end I am grateful and in awe at the work the Hospice and it's staff do.

It was my Dad who taught me to swim and my Dad who got me into cycling when I was a kid. He also encouraged and inspired me to run - anyone from the village will know about Don Powley running round the bridleways, right up to just before he was diagnosed.  He taught me to work hard at things and gave me my determination to achieve.  He is with me when I train now.

Hence I have chosen to run the Salisbury Half Marathon on 28 October in memory of my Dad and to raise funds for the Hospice.