Hi!!

Thanks for having a look at my page!

I am Tom and I run a small guitar shop in Cheltenham. A few months ago, aided by a couple of beers and encouragment (or bullying) by friends, I decided to sign up for my first ever half marathon. I do a bit of jogging every now and then, so this is a massive jump!!

I initially just paid the fees and was just going to do it to see if I can, but then I got thinking I probably should raise a little money for a good cause.

In my job, I have had a lot of young people come through who rave about a local music charity called The Music Works. I had heard of them but never looked into it in too much detail, so I had a look!

It is a fantastic local operation they have in Gloucester and the Forest of Dean, encouraging young people to strive for opportunities in music, that most people would never have access too. I have to admit I wasn't aware how big this was, they encourage young people to unleash their creativity from writing their first song, all the way to recording, releasing and performing. And I whole heartily agree with there ethos, that music has the power to empower, uplift and spark creativity in young people, regardless of their background or barriers they face in life. Music helps improve young people's mental and physical health as well as social and emotional skills, which can lead to transformation in their live, both immediately and in the future.

As music is a life long passion of mine and I wanted to support a local charity, it seemed like the perfect fit, and will hopefully give me the encouragement to cross the line in September!!!

Thank you 😊

Tom