WHAT:

I'm heading over to the IoM from Leeds this March to run the Flutter International Hospice Half in around 13/14kg of Viking battle gear. The family is coming and my wife is also running it and will also do some fundraising.

WHY:

A colleague based over there supports the charity after the Hospice cared for a friend of hers through his final days, and supported her through some other difficult times. A very worthy cause, if you can spare a few pounds or some hack silver.

The IoM's Viking heritage is very rich, so it will be great place to go a-viking!

HOW:

As an extra offering, I'm running with a large battle axe which itself weighs a few Kgs. It's long and awkward to run with but it's a big axe, which is cool (swings and roundabouts). Plus chainmail, seax and other sartorial Viking kit makes everything over 14kg in total.

Will I get tasered by the Manx police at the airport for packing heat? Possibly...

I've already been in touch with the Manx police to try ensure I don't get taken down on arrival, and they sent me a concerningly non-committal reply, inviting me to give them a call when I land. Im so going down.

THE HOSPICE'S MISSION:

By entering our half marathon, you can help us collectively raise £30,000 to fund up to 140 vital palliative care nursing visits for patients receiving end of life care at home.

Our Hospice at Home service enables people with life limiting illnesses to receive expert nursing care and support in the comfort of their own home in their final days. Supporting a patient’s wish to live out their final days in a place of their choosing has a multitude of benefits for the patient and their loved ones, making it a vital option for end of life care.

IF YOU CAN SPARE A FEW PENNIES, PLEASE DONATE!