Hi,

The Run

Despite having many times said that long-distance running is boring and that, accordingly, I would never partake in a marathon / half-marathon or any sort of run, buoyed possibly by a New Year's sense of pro-activism (and definitely by a  need to tackle my winter laziness), I have signed up to run the Great Manchester Run on 16 May 2010.

The run is a 10km circuit taking in many of Manchester's best-known sights and attractions - such as Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum and the A57(M) motorway. A map of the circuit can be seen here.

My current aim is to run this in less than an hour, but if any of you think this is too conservative (or too ambitious, as the case may be...), feel free to leave me a comment suggesting a new target!

The Charity - Alzheimer's Society

The run will be in aid of the Alzheimer's Society. As they explain...

"1 in 3 of us over 65 will die with dementia. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It is a debilitating illness which robs people of their lives. Millions of families across the UK are affected by dementia. Alzheimer's Society supports people with dementia today and funds research to provide hope for the future. "

As well as providing practical support through day care and home care services in over 250 centres across Great Britain, Alzheimer's Society invests millions every year in research to improve the quality of life of people suffering from dementia.

Having had two grandparents who suffered from dementia in their later years, my family know only too well how difficult dealing with dementia can be.

Double your money

My firm, Linklaters, has kindly agreed to match every penny I raise up to £500 - so if you give £10 (and you're a UK taxpayer), the Alzheimer's Society will receive £22.50 (£10 from Linklaters and £2.50 Gift Aid tax rebate).

About JustGiving

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Every donation is greatly appreciated and will make a huge difference.

Thank you!

Ben