As an experienced ‘roving reporter’ and senior journalist I’ve written countless stories about charities and incredible feats of fundraising during my travels around Hampshire, Herefordshire and Surrey.

But now, I’m asking for a helping hand of my own as I’m putting my feet, rather than my fingers, to the test in memory of my father-in-law, Colin, and the charity that cared for him.

On April 6 this year I will attempt to run the ABP Southampton Half Marathon for the Rosemary Foundation in recognition of the help, love and support they gave to both Colin and our family.

I couldn’t have asked for a better father-in-law. He was an incredibly witty, generous and knowledgeable man with a surprising turn of speed and a superb command of dad jokes and puns. You can probably blame him for their constant use in my articles.

The Rosemary Foundation have long been close to my heart and I’ve always strived to help them during my time at the Petersfield Post.

Nothing was ever too much for the nurses at this incredible hospice-at-home charity. They were ever-present and ever-caring in the weeks before Colin died peacefully at home in Liss in early December.

Now I enjoy running, but the most I’ve done until recently is around six miles, so the 13 through Southampton will be a push. But I’m training hard and Everyone Active are giving me a great hand with training at the Taro Centre in Petersfield.

I don’t care about my finishing time, average speed, or if I have to stop, I just want to push myself and do this for Colin and the Rosemary Foundation.

If you can support me in any way, then thank you.

Follow my progress on Strava! paulorhamish@hotmail.com