I've never run a marathon before. I like running. I often do 5K runs. I've never done anything longer than the length of a half-marathon (and that was an unorganised 'make it up as I go along' effort).

Last year my mother passed away after suffering from dementia for over a decade. I wanted to do something to fund-raise for Alzheimer's Society. Not to sit in a bath of baked beans or wear a clown costume at work, but to do something that is quite tough and requires substantial dedication.

That's 26.2 miles (42km), which is going to be gruelling. Like running from Leicester to Nottingham. Or Birmingham to Hinckley. Or Leeds to York. Or Wellingborough to Bedford. I could go on.

In the charity's own words: "Alzheimer’s Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever. Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice."