I'm doing the Paris Marathon on the 5th April. The training has been long and arduous. Endless miles in the wind, rain and mind-numbing cold of the British winter. Constant aches and niggles in the feet and legs, and the ignominy of being spotted in lycra leggings by neighbours and friends in the outer reaches of North London.

But on the positive side: the opprtunity to eat enormous quantities of pasta in the name of 'carbo-loading', half marathons in the glamorous surroundings of Watford and Berkhamsted and the much vaunted rush of the 'runners high'

I've decided to do the marathon to benefit of the good folk at the NSPCC who do a great job to protect and prevent cruelty to kids. Hopefully we can beat the £500 we raised at last years London Half Marathon!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: NSPCC gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation

Please sponsor me now!