On 26th July I am running a testing 35 mile stretch of Cornish coast to raise money for The Frank Haines Memorial Trust.

The Trust supports four small, hand-picked charities who provide a range of opportunities for underprivileged children in Tower Hamlets, including youth clubs, football, one-to-one advice, employment support and training courses.

60% of donations from this run will be ringfenced for a new charity - The Tower Hamlets Autism Support Project - who provide desperately needed information, advice and support to the parents and carers of children with autism living in the borough.

As many of you know I was immersed in this world following the diagnosis of my son, Frank, four years ago. We were fortunate enough to get some good advice and support as we navigated the shock and confusion of a diagnosis BUT we paid for it. State funded provision is entirely overwhelmed and insufficient, meaning charities like these are often the only lifeline a parent can rely on to help get their children on a better path.

Anything you can spare, however small, is greatly appreciated.

If I manage to raise over £2,000 I will run dressed as Albert Einstein in honor of one of the many wonderful autistic minds that have blessed our world!