Over the last week or so, I've been utterly devastated firstly by the senseless killings of children in Southport, and since then by the racist violence in cities up and down the country.

Wherever we come from, we all have a right to feel safe. That’s why city by city, community by community, City of Sanctuary UK are building a more welcoming UK for people forced to flee their homes.

I've been feeling at a loss at how I could make a difference but something I do know how to do is run (slowly) for a very long time!

And so on 17th August I will be taking on an ultramarathon run to Southport along the Transpennine Trail. Exact starting point TBC but from a train station near to a point on the TPT approx 50-60km from Southport.

There are many organisations doing important and relevant work at this time, but the work of City of Sanctuary felt a worthy cause through their engagement with individuals, groups and organisations in every area and in every sector to encourage inclusivity, solidarity and compassion for people from a forced displacement background.

I will also personally be making a donation to the Southport Strong Together appeal to support the individuals, families and wider community of those affected by the attack in Southport.