Now I'm far enough into the training that I can say with some degree of confidence my body will hold together to make the trip around - please sponsor me for the London Marathon!

Save the Children believes that every child deserves a future. In the UK and around the world, they give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. They do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share. By supporting my fundraising, you are helping to give children a brighter future.

At the tender age of 41 it will be my first marathon. I've survived the cold, dark, wet mid-winter night runs squeezed in around work and the kids. Gritted my way through insufferable chafing in the unmentionables. Fielded my wife's looks of despair at my perma-blackened toenails. Running in aid of this worthwhile cause makes the pain worth it and will fuel my race (along with flapjacks and jelly babies) on the big day.

Any amount you pledge my employer BNP Paribas kindly match to make your donation go even further. Even more bang for your buck!

Many thanks

James