Hello folks, I'm gonna have a little run around the big smoke in memory of a special lad who enhanced my life in ways that I'm still coming to terms with, and I'd really love your support.

I never had the chance to tell Jonny Lavy how much I appreciated him so I thought I'd send him my love by bursting my lungs in a world-famous marathon. Jonny was an absolute legend and a fantastic friend to me for seventeen years. On the cusp of adulthood, in 2014, we travelled to Malawi together seeking an adventure. Beyond patiently taking care of me when I caught malaria, he also constantly kept my curious mind stimulated with lively discussions about philosophy, religion and the general mysteries of life. For that, I'm forever grateful.

The photo of us holding the football trophy together reminds me of Jonny's competitive spirit. Hence I'm keen to finish the London Marathon in a fast time, not because I'm crazy, but because Jonny would expect nothing less. Jonny passionately supported me in everything I chose to do in life, from making history-inspired films to hosting large consciousness-raising events, and I'm sure he'd be equally as proud of this latest endeavour.

His suicide still hasn't quite sunken in for me, and I'm haunted by the conversations that I'll never get to have with the lad. Albeit, the important thing is that Jonny always knew that he could get deep with me. Those who are familiar with the work I did during my uni years will know that I'm all too wary of how mental health issues impact young men.

I'm a firm believer that as humans, we all naturally hold the power to strengthen our own minds. Yet, I'm equally aware of how important the right support can be. Mental Health Foundation do some incredible work and I feel very proud to represent them during my run. Please donate to their cause as generously as you can x