I haven’t run regularly or any long distances since finishing chemotherapy several years ago. My prolapsed discs, dodgy knees and general old age have meant that I’ve struggled to be fit, and it’s been easier just to stay in the warm with a nice beer! But 2019 is my year and I’ve decided to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 24 March to raise much needed funding for Brook. 

I’d really appreciate your support and Brook is an amazing charity (not least because it is run by my wife, Helen). Brook provides wellbeing and sexual health services in local communities, relationships advice and education for young people on staying safe and making positive lifestyle choices, as well as training for professionals such as teachers, doctors and youth workers. 

Brook’s work started over 50 years ago and the charity now supports more than 235,000 young people every year. Having two teenage daughters means that I really understand how important their work is!

My training has been patchy due to my knees. I am a month behind my training plan but working hard to catch up. I’m now out each weekend and am running over an hour and have got beyond 6 miles (10k), with a 10 mile run planned mid-February. I’m nervous about the half marathon but confident that I will get to the start and complete it – even if I have to walk (or crawl) the last few miles! 

Thank you for donating and I’ll keep you updated with my progress, and celebrations at the end.