The simple reason for doing the marathon after a 10 year break is the wonderful Cure Leukaemia.

Leukaemia is a disease which can strike anyone at any age and the incredible research and specialist nurses that Cure Leukaemia funds are finding new and exciting solutions to significantly enhance the survival chances of anyone diagnosed with leukaemia.

I was touched by the disease in the early 2000’s when a family friend’s daughter was diagnosed with the disease and initially given a very bleak prognosis.

This is when I learned of the incredible work of Professor Charlie Craddock and the establishment of Cure Leukaemia by Charlie, Graham Silk and Michael Woolley - I even bought Geoff Thomas’s Tour de France bike at a CL auction at Barnet Green cricket club!

Fortunately, my friend’s daughter, through her incredible bravery and the wonderful medical intervention by Charlie and his team, survived and recovered to live a full and rewarding life.

Latterly I have gotten to know James McLaughlin and Geoff Cousins and the brilliant CL team who work tirelessly to drive the Charity forward.

So - here I am - 10 years on from my last marathon and indeed my last run!!

I profess it is a journey into the unknown and my training will no doubt be intermittent but I will do it, by hook or by crook.

My initial goal - at 64 - is to beat 6 hours 4 minutes - but over the next couple of months, the target will be revised - hopefully downwards!!

I’m aiming to raise £10k - hopefully a lot more more - but I will personally match the total funds raised on a £ for £ basis so please consider giving generously to support an amazing charity.

Thanks as ever

Darryl