I've never run in a Marathon before. And with a short time to go before the Brighton Marathon, Im at last beginning to feel like all the training is paying off

I've decided Im going to run in memory of my dear niece Sophie who tragically died last May. This is the reason why...

We were told when she was an infant that due to various issues she may never walk. For years she struggled to crawl let alone stand. But through her own sheer determination she proved the experts wrong. Drawing on the support of her beloved parents, brother, family and friends, she surprised everyone when she managed to over come her disabilities to take her first few steps unaided.

We will now never know if she would ever have been able to run. But what we do know is that in her wake, she has left a legacy. A legacy to not give up hope, to embrace life's challenges, and to make the very best of what you have. This is a legacy I am now determined to uphold.

At the same time, Im thrilled to help raise funds for such an amazing charity as Brighton Gay Men's Chorus. The choir is really engaged in the local community, providing a safe supportive space for gay and gay-friendly men to meet whilst also learning how to sing. As many of you know, I love it, and it's the support of its members (as well as of my dear partner, friends and family) which have helped me through many a personal difficulty in recent times.

Saying that, this is the biggest challenge so far. The training has been hard. The weather conditions have been terrible. And many times my determination has been blunted. So please please please dig deep and help give me a boost. I'd really appreciate it!