Let's get something straight right away.

When Manj and Tsz, Pink Squid's directors, came back from a client meeting to tell us they'd agreed for Pink Squid to run a half marathon, we weren't keen.

Especially when we discovered neither Tsz nor Manj had any intention of joining the volunteers on this endeavour.

But being Pink Squid, there were indeed volunteers. First six, then seven hardy souls one by one pulled up their running socks and got training. 

And for the seven Squids running, a remarkable transformation has pulled positives from the negative of being, basically, stitched up by our bosses.

Smokers have become runners. Blisters have become badges of pride. Each morning this group of seven discuss adventures found pounding the pavements of London.

And on 18th October, come rain or (less likely) shine, they will run all 13 miles of The Great Birmingham Run. Alongside our wonderful client Jaguar Land Rover, Pink Squid will be raising money for Cure Leukaemia - a hugely worthwhile cause.

So dig deep. Skim a little from your weekend fund, skip a morning coffee, rob a bank. Actually don't do that.

But do donate. Because Manj and Tsz have graciously agreed to match every donation we get.