“I saw you out running yesterday…” people used to say up until a couple of weeks ago, but now with lockdown I’m confined to the rickety budget treadmill in the garage.



Therefore I’m running a half-marathon (13.1 miles) in my garage to raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice. The vital services St Catherine’s provide require huge levels of funding and with charity fundraising events cancelled nationwide we need to think a bit differently.



Unlike previous running events that have enabled me to take in the views of countryside, forest, moorland, city streets and national monuments, this running event in my garage will outshine them all as I will be taking in the spectacular views of a brick wall, old bikes, garden chairs (folded for easy storage), a 1970s vintage sledge, a kitchen sink awaiting fitting (still boxed), a dartboard and a few framed Star Wars posters. It’s basically running on the spot for charity!



Now this is where the challenge kicks in, the treadmill is basically a bit rubbish, it was a budget one from Argos and the running belt is very narrow, it is like running on a doormat, so I won’t be running for time and speed, it will be a run that focuses on trying not to go over the side and landing on the floor. Fingers crossed.



In these strange times, money is uncertain for everyone, all I ask is that you donate as much as you can and justify. Sponsoring is your way to help our hospice services in Scarborough and help their great cause. A small donation is better than no donation.