I can't quite believe I have allowed myself to be persuaded to do the Great North Run on 10 September, but I do indeed have an entry and I'll give it my very best shot! The run will be enough of a challenge in itself, but the main reason I'm running is to raise money for the West End Refugee Service (WERS).

Based in the west end of Newcastle, WERS provides refugees with practical help, advice and advocacy through daily drop-in sessions. It also offers home visits, a befriending scheme, an emergency hardship fund and a clothing store. Last year, WERS supported 520 asylum seekers and refugees living in Newcastle.

Given the immense social impact of WERS on an often marginalised group of our society, I believe it is a very worthy cause. Their need for support is all the greater at the moment, as three major grants have recently come to an end.

I would love you to join me in bringing hope to some of our most vulnerable brothers and sisters by supporting WERS. Any amount you feel you can give, however large or small, will be enormously appreciated. Thank you.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.