The Salvation Army is a registered charity and church working in 120 countries worldwide and is one of the largest and most diverse providers of social welfare in the world. In the UK and Republic of Ireland this work includes more than 800 Salvation Army social service centres and community churches. We provide unconditional friendship, support and very practical help to people in crisis and need and work with children, older people, homeless people and those dealing with drug and/or alcohol addiction.

My Mum and Dad used to buy The War Cry from the Sally Army Officer when they made their monthly visit to a local pub with Uncle Bill and Auntie Ivy. I waited for the copy with interest as a little kid. My Dad was impressed with the Army. He had been a soldier in the British army and respected the way the Sally Army put their Christian faith into action. 

I was proud to run my third marathon - and this time in a Salvation Army vest - in 2017 in London. I raised around £3000 for Gloucester House, the Sally Army rehabilitation community centre in Swindon. And I completed the marathon distance in a PB of 5 hours 37 minutes and 29 seconds!

I was 68 then. I reach my 70th birthday in September this year and it really appeals to set myself this personal challenge for April 2019 to celebrate that milestone in my life.