Despite insisting that I would never try to run a marathon, I have somehow found myself signed up for this year’s London Marathon. The reality of winter training has now really sunk in, with early morning runs in the dark, freezing cold and sodding rain.

But I’ve made a commitment to see this through, and, more importantly, I’ve committed to running for the wonderful Children’s Society — and that alone makes the misery of training worth it.

Across the country, many young people are struggling unseen and unheard, facing poor mental health, poverty, and the risk of exploitation and abuse. Too often, they don’t get the support they need when they need it most.

The Children’s Society has been working for over 140 years to change that. They help ensure children and young people can access vital support, and they campaign for a world where every child can grow up safe, happy and hopeful. They believe — rightly — that teenagers are still children, and that every child deserves care, protection and the chance to thrive.

By supporting this run, you’re helping The Children’s Society continue to protect childhoods and stand alongside young people who need it most.

Training has already shown me how motivating it is to run for a good cause, and I will no doubt need that motivation on race day — so please donate if you can and help support this brilliant charity.