Thanks for visiting our page. Three of us from the National Theatre's Development department have inexplicably decided that running the London Marathon in April 2010 is a good idea. None of us have previously run a marathon and we're unlikely to ever again, so we're wading into the unknown; a hugely daunting but exciting prospect.

A big part of us deciding to take the plunge now is due to us having a wonderful cause to support. Chris is involved at Putney Samaritans which are an incredible charity. At Putney there are 100+ helpline volunteers who take calls from people in distress, despair or who are feeling that they can't continue. Samaritans is such an important service for so many people requiring confidential, non-judgemental emotional support.

Samaritans is well known as a resource for those with suicidal feelings but this isn't its sole purpose. A great deal of time is spent listening to people, often youngsters, who feel upset, confused, isolated or lonely, comforting those who've lost someone close to them or providing a sounding board for people who've lost their jobs and don't know where to turn in order to pay their bills. It is a hugely dedicated charity, open 24/7, 365 days a year, with 17,000 volunteers in 201 branches around the .

This is about to take over our lives for five months and is going to be an extraordinary challenge. We'll appreciate every ounce of emotional support over the coming months and we promise you that Samaritans, and those who use their helplines, will appreciate every bit of financial support you can offer.

Please give as generously as you can afford to. 

Thank you,

Jordana, Martin and Chris

PS. As you probably know, if you’re a taxpayer Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. However, if you'd prefer to sponsor me with cash or a cheque, please just let me know and I'll be happy to arrange.