Hi all

Having slowly come to the realisation that my rugby days are drawing to a close I've decided to spend this beautiful British spring sliding through the snow on London's streets ready to run the London Marathon on 21 April 2013 to raise money for Friendship Works.   

Friendship Works are a small and wonderful charity offering mentoring support to help children and young people who are having problems growing up in their home and social environment. The young people they work with need stronger social support networks. They face problems such as social isolation, learning or behavioral difficulties, bullying or other challenges at school, or might be young carers for parents with health problems. As a result, many have not had the opportunity to do things in life that other children and young people take for granted, such as a simple trip to the cinema or visit to the park. They haven’t had the chance to develop important life-skills, and don’t know how to cope with some of life’s everyday challenges. They are less likely than their peers to be able to develop the skills, interests and attitudes that they need to lead a fulfilling life. Friendship Works work across London in some of our most challenging Boroughs including Islington, Camden and Southwark to recruit, train and pair adult volunteer mentors with children and young people aged 5-16 who need more adult support in their lives. 

Any sponsorship you can give would be amazing and hugely appreciated by me and this great charity (and no, sadly that is not actually my London 2012 medal...)