Hi everyone,

Thanks for clicking on the link. I have (perhaps foolishly*) signed up last minute to run the North London Half Marathon on Sunday 20 March. Given that until last autumn, I'd never run for anything apart from discounted Paul Smith hand luggage**, I am still mildly surprised at myself. Having previously run in very practical attire***, I have now acquired "trainers" and "sportswear" , and have been training in order to make it to the finish line.

You will all have seen the daily news stories about the refugee crisis spreading across the Middle East and Europe. The British Red Cross, working with other Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, is doing vital work providing food, water and healthcare to refugees and asylum seekers along the routes people are taking to flee violence and persecution.

I know it's very late notice, but if you can donate anything at all to the British Red Cross, I would be eternally grateful.

Best wishes

Rahul

--

*definitely foolishly

**nevertheless worthwhile

*** chinos and boat shoes