Back in 2010, I visited International Animal Rescue's orangutan rescue and rehabilitation centre in West Kalimantan, Borneo. It had just started operating, and it is an experience I will never forget. The dedication and hard work of the people I met there was awe-inspiring, but the fact that such a centre was so desperately needed was truly devastating. Orangutans on the island were under attack: Habitat loss, persecution by humans over resources, the illegal 'pet' trade and hunting all contributed to their dwindling numbers. The centre provided a safe haven back then, and today it continues to be as vital as it was 15 years ago.

This is why I am proud to be running my very first half marathon in aid of International Animal Rescue.

International Animal Rescue not only save animals from suffering, they also rehabilitate and release them back to their natural habitats and work to protect their homes. Their work includes cutting free and caring for captive bears in India and Armenia, rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans and other primates in Indonesia and treating injured and orphaned howler monkeys in Costa Rica. Their aim is to return animals to their natural environment wherever possible, but they also provide a permanent home for those who can no longer fend for themselves.

Their vision is a world where humans and animals coexist in sustainable ecosystems. Their mission is to build awareness and implement effective systems such that animals and their habitats are protected.