I’ve decided to take on the personal challenge of running a marathon at the Zig Zag event in Haughley Park in Suffolk and hope to raise needed funds for 3rd Chalkwell Bay Sea Scouts.

Why? My eldest son joined 3rdCB 5 years ago, at 13 as we were coming out of Covid. He had lost his confidence and enthusiasm for the things he once enjoyed. Being part of 3rdCB turned this around for him and facilitated some of his, and my other children who subsequently joined the group, best and most memorable experiences, including summer camps, lighting fires, camping on the beach, hill walking in the Peak District and learning how to sail, not to mention meeting the best friends I know they will go on to keep forever. I wasn’t too far behind in joining the group as part of the leader team.

The leader team are passionate about delivering a packed programme every term and giving children those core memories, teaching and passing on skills for life that will set them apart from the rest.

All of the amazing opportunities that the young people have in the group are facilitated by volunteers who week after week give up their time to teach the children new things and have a bit of fun in between. The leader team give up a week of their summer to take the children camping, the most memorable experience for all. We even have qualified sailing instructors and a boating team who give up their weekends to teach our children how to sail on the water, at no extra cost to families.

There are a team of people who tirelessly fundraise in order to keep the group running. However, there are always things needed to continue offering the exceptional opportunities for the children. Ahead of this year we are in need of new camping equipment and are in desperate need of new sailing gear, including splash jackets and life jackets.

Running a marathon is obviously a personal challenge, but I hope it will raise enough funds In order to give back to the group, what they have given and continue to give, not only to my children, but an entire community of children. It would be amazing if you could support me and my marathon journey in to raise as much money as we can so we can buy the mentioned equipment allowing us to continue to offer amazing outdoor experiences to children.

I’ve never run a marathon before and the struggle is very real. Early morning starts, late finishes, cold, wet and dark. It's hard. I'm currently at the 12k mark and around 9 weeks to go. Your support will really mean the world and help push me on!

Thank you so very much!

Aimée x