For those of you who missed the hard version - here's my piece from the Indy explaining how it's done - http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-living/marathon-training-the-cheats-guide-to-running-805731.html

Hello

This year I have decided to run the London Marathon to raise money for Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO). Those of you who sponsored me last year should know all about the good work they do sending skilled volunteers to places where they are needed, otherwise you can check them out at www.vso.org.uk.

The marathon bit shouldn't take much explaining - that's 26.2 miles pounding the streets of London, fighting for a patch of concrete with the other 30,000 competitors in, if it's the same as last year, very very hot weather.

I have been training for what seems like months (though I haven't lost any toenails yet this time) and I have had to forego wearing heels for the duration, which has been especially tough. But this part is the most important bit  - begging for your hard earned cash to reach and hopefully pass my fundraising target of £1,500.

Any donation however big or small will be hugely appreciated, and if you can make it down to London/out of bed in time to support me on the day that would be amazing too. It should be a fun day out in London, you can laugh at me huffing and puffing and sweating and crying by mile 10, and then join me for more fun, and celebratory booze, in the park afterwards.

Thanks

Sophiex

PS - apologies for the image. I promise to upload amusing pictures of me training etc asap.

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Voluntary Service Overseas will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support.