I'm running the Belfast Half Marathon to raise money for Tearfund. (I'm hoping to complete it in under 1:40 - if that impresses you - read on!)

It's my privilege to work for Tearfund and to have seen first hand the impact our work makes in communities across the world. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world - every £ raised really does make a difference to some of the most vulnerable communities. BUT, it isn't just 'Aid'. It isn't money down the drain, washed away in the next flood, or watered down by corruption or poor management.

Tearfund's model of long term, sustainable development is about seeing communities change their own circumstances; partnering with local people (almost always the local church) to build lasting change, mobilise local resources, develop resilience in the face of disaster, build secure incomes and see whole life change.

I'm running the half marathon to raise money for this really important long term change. I really appreciate any donations.