On October 12, Clare and I will run the Oxford Half marathon raising funds for Style Acre. This is without doubt the most emotional fund raising I can recall undertaking.

On 27 January this year my great friend and nephew Josh lost his battle with life; he passed away far too young at the tender age of just 22! Despite his life limiting illness Josh was not expected to pass away so young. A shock to us all.

I was away when Josh fell ill but I made it home for one last hug in hospital, it was a special moment.

I am not sure why we bonded so closely but it is fair to say we were often inseparable at family events, spending many hours together often exploring Josh’s passion for music.

In the last 6 months of Josh’s life he had moved to an amazing assisted living home in Oxford with 3 other house mates. The house was run by Style Acre and having recently visited the home I can attest to what a great place he lived, was loved and encouraged to thrive. His dad Nick said that Josh’s life had been an uphill struggle and only recently when he had moved into his new home, did it feel as if they were winning the struggle and on a happy path.

We are determined to raise a significant sum for the charity and I will be joined on the run by Clare, Lizzie and my brother in law, Josh's father, Nick. It is fair to say I am without doubt the weakest runner and this will be a major challenge.

Please dig deep.