Where to begin?

Ever since my unlikely victory in the Kilimanjaro Marathon in 1997 (make sure this can't be checked on Google - Ed), it's all gone a bit pear-shaped for me. I've gained a few pounds, allowed myself too little training time (six weeks!), and have decided to have my third go at running a London Marathon. On my birthday. Follow my progress here.

You may ask "why?" Well, it's true that I actually relish the challenge.

But it's about more than that. It's about raising money for Africa Enterprise Trust (http://www.aetuk.org), a charity I've been involved with for more than ten years now. AET works in Zambia, one of the world's poorest countries, to help some of the most disadvantaged people I have ever met: it gives homes to children who have lost both their parents; it sponsors other children through school, giving them a chance in life; and it provides access to skills and training for adults, helping them to make a difference to themselves and their communities.

Your support makes a huge difference. It honestly doesn't matter if it's fifty quid or a fiver. It all helps.

It goes without saying that donations made via JustGiving are simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer.

So please dig deep and donate now. And watch this space for more information on my progress ...