I'm fundraising to support Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s Mission Wild Campaign by taking on the Cheltenham Half Marathon — my very first half marathon since beginning my running journey in May last year.

Since I started running, spending time outdoors in Gloucestershire’s beautiful natural spaces has had a huge impact on both my physical and mental health. Running through woodlands, countryside trails, and alongside rivers has helped me manage stress, improve my wellbeing, and feel more connected to the nature around me. Training for this challenge has shown me just how important access to wild spaces can be for our health and happiness.

That connection to nature is one of the reasons I wanted to support Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s Mission Wild campaign. Gloucestershire’s wild places have declined at an alarming rate, with habitats lost, rivers polluted, and wildlife disappearing as their homes are destroyed. One in six UK species is now at risk of extinction — but there is hope. Species like the large blue butterfly and pine marten have shown that nature can recover when we give it the chance.

Every donation will support Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s wider Mission Wild work — helping to restore habitats, reconnect landscapes, bring wildlife back, and connect more people with nature across Gloucestershire. If nature has ever helped you feel calmer, healthier, or happier, I’d really appreciate your support as I take on this challenge.