In September 2019, I will attempt a new World Record as the oldest female to run from John O' Groats to Land's End to raise awareness of health and ageing matters. (www.therunninggranny.co.uk)

All monies raised will be used to develop Going for Old CIC, GFO, a social enterprise, aiming to encourage, motivate and inspire people to make small, positive lifestyle choices to improve their physical and mental health throughout life.

Our physical and mental health are the most important assets we have. Problems arising in either can have significant consequences for all areas of our life, from relationships to employment to general enjoyment of life.

The NHS has significant funding and staff shortage crises, and is struggling to cope with demand. In particular, there is enormous growth in the number of people with obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and lung disease, and depression, which have an adverse impact on quality of life.

Levels of obesity are now so high, including in children, that associated conditions, diabetes and high blood pressure, are occurring at younger ages.

70% of the NHS health and care budget is spent on people with long term health conditions, leaving little for all the other services we need: GPs, A&E, maternity, elective surgery and so on. We are already seeing rationing of certain services. More money alone won't solve the problem.

The conditions above are largely preventable and, even if you have one, there things you can do to slow any deterioration or even reverse the condition.

GFO will develop a trusted resource of information and provide opportunities to support self-improvement in four lifestyle areas of eating, drinking, social and physical activity through engaging 'challenges' for long term personal change.

If we can reduce the growth in preventable conditions then, as well as benefiting ourselves, perhaps we can help our NHS to continue to deliver all the services we would like for future generations.