Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have to apologise to my sponsors, but this week I injured my knee to such an extent that I've been told I can't run on it for a number of weeks. As the Great North Run is now under five weeks away, I'm not going to be able to train back up in time to run safely in this year's race.

Unfortunately, the Great North Run's current rules only allow injury deferrals more than 10 weeks before the event, so I'm now too late to defer my place to next year, despite being unfit to run. Instead, I'll find another challenge to take on in 2027 and will carry all of your existing sponsorship forward to that, so I can still complete a challenge in recognition of everyone who has so generously supported me this year.

Though I'm obviously gutted, I want everyone to know that JustGiving ensures your donations still go to the charity you wanted them to - in this case Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter. If anyone would prefer a refund, please let me know and we'll ask Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter to return your particular donation.

Thank you so much to everyone who has sponsored me already — and I'm sorry I won't be able to do the run for you this year.

I just wanted to still say a bit about the amazing local charity that gives animals a second chance. Our husky, Halen (above), is a huge part of our lives, and supporting the shelter in his name feels like a way of giving something back to other animals still waiting for their forever homes.

They say:

"Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter helps animals that are lost, unwanted, neglected, abused and abandoned. We reunite lost animals with their owners and find loving new homes for those no longer wanted."

*All funds promised will still go to Newcastle Cat and Dog Shelter and will be credited to my next 2027 challenge.