I started running in August 2017 and I am a member of the Isle of Wight Road Runners. I am not a quick runner, 48 years old, bit overweight but have bags of enthusiasm, motivation and determination when I run and do get there in the end.  I absolutely love running and have raised monies in the past for the Shaw Trust, Breast Cancer and the Cats Protection.  I also love animals and have two cats, three guinea pigs, two rabbits, a tortoise and a terrapin and luckily have a very understanding husband called Mike. I have always adopted from animal rescues so have always been the second/third owner of the wonderful animals we have shared our lives with.

I have now completed three Marathons, one London in April 2019 and two raising money for the Isle of Wight Cats Protection as part of a two run challenge, the  Virtual London in October 2020 and the London Marathon on the 03 October 2021. I am thinking of retiring now from long distance running and will watch instead. It takes a lot of hard work and determination training but will always love running but will just do shorter distances.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity with a vision that we live in a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats Protection has simple and clear objectives to help cats: Homing - Finding good homes for cats in need. Neutering - Supporting and encouraging the neutering of cats.  Information - Improving people’s understanding of cats and their care.  Achieving this vision is only made possible due to kind cat lovers who support our work. Visit www.cats.org.uk for more information.

If you could sponsor me I would be so grateful, the training is hard going out in the sun, the rain, the wind. There can be tears, moaning, why am I doing this speeches to myself and injuries but knowing I am helping a wonderful charity gets me round and what an achievement.

Thank you so much for all of your support across the years and for helping me with all of my fundraising.

Beverley James.