Well, here we are again. My place for the London marathon 2024 was unfortunately deferred to 2025 on account of a case of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (shin splints). Whilst the issue remains, it will not be easy, but I am very much committed to doing my absolute best!

I'm fundraising for London Youth, an amazing charity that believes that where you start off in life should not dictate where you end up. I love this belief and relate to it very closely. Working in professional services, an industry that historically hasn't seen enough diversity, including when it comes to the socio-economic backgrounds of our colleagues, means the industry has missed out on some exceptional talent.

London Youth supports young Londoners directly through a network of community youth organisations in every borough of the capital, giving them the chance to thrive - not just survive - and become successful adults.

From sports development, social action, employability and outdoor education, London Youth gives young people access to opportunities that they might not otherwise have.

Around 40% of children in London are living in poverty.

Young people need somewhere to go, someone to trust and something to do: youth work provides this.

But supporting the youth sector is more important than ever, after a trilogy of cuts, covid and cost of living.

Data collected in 2023 shows that London Youths members have supported over 650,000 young people and that attendance had risen since 2022.

Last year, 70% of young people on our programme were of Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority backgrounds, and 11% had a mental or physical disability.

I have a pretty strong target to hit, but I hope I can count on the support of my friends, colleagues and contacts to contribute to a fantastic cause.