Throughout 2027, I’m taking on a challenge to run 1,000 kilometres to raise money for Alder Hey Children’s Charity, inspired by the care our daughter Evie received during her heart surgery.

Calling myself an amateur runner is probably being generous. I can count on two hands how many 5Ks I’ve run in my entire life. Now I’m committing to the equivalent of more than 16 of them every month, for a whole year. That’s around 83km a month, fitted around work, family life and being a dad to twins. This is a huge leap from where I’m starting, and it’s going to take a lot of training, determination and probably a fair bit of complaining.

The kilometres will come from a mixture of treadmill sessions, road runs, parkruns, organised events and whatever other running adventures the year brings. From a short evening jog to building towards longer distances, every run will count towards the same goal.

The challenge runs from 1 January to 31 December 2027. I’ll share my progress, milestones and updates along the way, and you’ll be able to follow my little cartoon runner as he makes his way towards the 1,000km finish line.

We are so grateful for the incredible support and care Evie received during her stay at Alder Hey. This is my way of saying thank you and supporting the charity’s work for other children and families.

Whether you donate, share the challenge or join me for a run, I’d love you to be part of it.