Without functioning ecosystems, we simply cannot function. It is as simple as that. We all have a part to play, all existing within this biosphere, each tilting the balance a little one way or the other, and sometimes in dramatically powerful ways when we align our actions.

Like any change required for a problem, the first step is noticing.

Noticing that we are already in a dangerous drought after the wettest winter in recent history.

Noticing the summer air and sea temperatures are changing faster than we even predicted, and that the snowball will only accelerate.

Noticing that despite our promises and commitments to climate, restoration, and biodiversity targets, at a local scale, nature continues to be further fragmented and pressured, forgotten and lost.

Noticing that many people have fewer and fewer wild encounters, and that with each lost opportunity, we weaken our connection to nature and lose the wonder and curiosity needed to drive conservation.

Noticing that there are great organisations of extremely passionate people dedicating their lives to the protection and restoration of natural spaces and wildlife, with an emphasis on accessibility and equity, and that we have a lot to be hopeful for and proud of.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust is one such far-reaching organisation that achieves so much and is full to the brim with expertise, energy and kindness, and I will happily champion them where ever I can. I am certain that their causes benefit us all.

Community and family have never been more important, and we should find relief that we are not facing this climate crisis alone. I am lucky that for the challenge this time round, I will joined by my dad Nick who is truly a pair of lungs on legs and is an amazing man who, like my generous mum Lesley, has spent most of his life working very hard for the NHS.

Although we have both ran our fair share of marathons, this will be our first together and it means a lot to us. Running has always been a big part of our family connection, with my dad previously running the London Marathon with my late grandfather, his father Roger, who was an original member of The London Marathon Ever Presents and the best runner I have ever known. I would like to think of this as a passing on of the baton somewhat so to speak.

Please only give what you can but know that any contribution will help CWT work towards their shared vision of a wilder Cornwall, feeding directly into implementing rewilding on land and at sea, engaging communities to protect nature, and managing more than 5,500 acres of habitats rich in wildlife.

Thank you.