This is my 6th half marathon but the first time I've ran in my home town. My dad Louie died 20 years ago this September. He loved to run and I still have his Great North Run medal from the 90s which I'll be carrying with me on the day. It seems a good time to celebrate his life and raise money for one of the charities that he supported all his life. Dad believed in helping the helpless and the work the NSPCC do is a testament to that. I'm training my arse off this year because I want him to be proud of me. This one's for you King Louie.

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