On the 25th April 2010 I am taking on one of my greatest challenges - I'm training to run the Virgin London Marathon. 26.2 gruelling miles (40km) and probably 5 hours of running - but I'm told it will be worth it in the end.

I know you can't believe it....the little fat kid from school, sixth form, uni, sports teams and work etc is taking on the biggest feat of them all. I'm determined to get round and conquer this for charity, for my reconstructed knee and for myself!

I've decided to take on this challenge and help raise money for Mencap. This is a charity that has helped my cousin Gavin, who suffers with a form of Cerebral Palsy for over 21 years. Hence I couldn't think of a better charity to run for and it means a lot to me. Mencap assist with learning disabilities and also support for the families of people with disabilities.

I urge you to pledge as generously as you can. This is the first time I've attempted to raise money for charity and I promise it won't be a reocurring trend once I've taken on this challenge. Hence please give as much as you can to this one off event. I need to try and reach the target of £1600 or more, so every penny counts. So please give what you can. Its going to a great charity that does so much work with disabled children and adults.

Mencap in short
A learning disability is caused by the way the brain develops before, during or shortly after birth. It is always lifelong. It is not mental illness or dyslexia. People with a learning disability find it harder than others to learn, understand and communicate. There are over 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK. Most are treated as 'different'. They do not have the same control over their own lives as the rest of society. Thats where Mencap step in.

Donating through JustGiving is 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 it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.