I am running my first Great North Run in memory of my nephew Ben.

Ben was a fun-loving, ambitious and caring child. He loved his rugby, computer gaming and the family black labrador, Hamish. In 2015, an MRI scan days before his 11th birthday revealed a large brain tumour. Ben underwent months of intensive treatment including brain surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, some of it spent in isolation.

The tumour and treatment had a significant impact on his physical and mental well-being. Throughout his short life, Ben had fantastic support from NHS staff at Southampton and Poole Hospitals and from his family and friends, to whom the family will be forever grateful. Unfortunately, Ben's tumour returned in 2018. He underwent further surgery, chemotherapy, including trial drugs and radiotherapy, but sadly to no avail. Ben died in September 2022, aged just 18.

I'm running to raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity. They fund vital research into improved treatments and raising awareness of the signs and symptoms to secure early diagnosis. Brain cancer is the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40 but it receives disproportionately less funding than many other cancers.

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world's leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, they are moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour.

They are set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And doing it right now. Because they understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can't wait.

As some of you may know, I was a Trustee and Treasurer of our local hospice in Durham, St Cuthbert's Hospice for over 9 years, during which time we successfully funded and constructed the in-patient bed facility.

St Cuthbert’s along with many other charities have suffered in recent years. They offer fantastic support to families in our area and any support you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

My intention would be that any funds raised would be split between the two fantastic charities above, both close to my heart.