It’s an honour to be invited to be part of Team YMCA at the London Marathon 2026.

YMCA exists to provide the essential building blocks for a full and rewarding life: a safe home; acceptance; guidance; friendship; physical and mental health; academic support; employment skills; and access to real opportunities.

Many young people have never known these things; other people have lost one or more as they grew up, but we all need them. All of us.

YMCA provides these critical foundations for a fresh, strong start for young people and a better quality of life in the community.

YMCA’s vision is to transform communities so that all young people can belong, contribute and thrive.

I have got to know the fantastic people at YMCA Bournemouth since first taking part in the YMCA Big Sleep Easy in 2019 and I have been a proud supporter of the charity ever since.

I have never run for longer than 10k before, so the thought of training for, and running, a marathon is extremely daunting.

Having seen the tangible impact of their services – from housing and mental health support to youth development – my aim is to raise awareness and funds that could help fund YMCA’s vital work with vulnerable young people and communities.