Long term fans of my running escapades may recall that I attempted to run the London Marathon in 2021.

I say “attempted” because at the 32km mark my right leg seized up, reducing me to an ungainly sort of hobble-shuffle for the last 10km, leading scores of better-prepared runners to stream past me. Including, rather embarrassingly, Matt Hancock.

In 2023 I have decided to redeem myself by running the London Marathon again.

When deciding who to fundraise for this time round, I cast my mind back to 2018, when I received a call from Anthony Nolan. “You have one of the UK's most popular tissue types!” they charmed me. “We need you to come in for a blood test so we can see if you would be a match.” I set off for my blood test, the nurse did her job, and as I left I promptly proceeded to pass out at reception.

This led to a supremely awkward conversation the next day, when I had to explain my fear of blood and needles. And, unknown to me, it turns out a stem cell donation is an 8 hour blood transfusion. And so I gained the inglorious honour of being kicked off the stem cell register for being too much of a wimp.

So I owe them one. If I can’t give them my blood, I can offer some sweat and maybe some tears. I’m fundraising for Anthony Nolan because they do tremendous work in the community, helping find stem cell donors for those suffering from blood cancer, saving and improving the lives of thousands of people in the process.

I’d be hugely grateful for all and any donation. I’ll also be putting my money where my mouth (feet? legs?) are, matching all donations until we hit our target.

See you at the finish line. Thanks for your support.