It will be 10 years since my first (and only) marathon. I have now obviously forgotten the agony and pain. Certainly the promise - never, ever to even think of running one again! I am aiming to take part in the Virgin London Marathon 2012. This time I will also be raising funds for “Alone in London”. (AIL)

This is an important youth homelessness charity that has been supporting young people since 1972. It provides a badly needed range of services to vulnerable young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Last year they had contact with over 2000 such youngsters. I suspect with the continuing housing crisis and changes in benefits this demand will grow and grow.

I am asking for donations from this JustGiving page. Donating through JustGiving is quite simple and safe. Make sure you that you use Gift Aid for AIL to get the tax relief.

I am sure that some will sponsor me since they will like the idea of me suffering for 26 miles!

In 2002 I finished (very slowly and hobbling for the last 6 miles) at 4 hours 24 minutes. Despite the extra decade I am aiming for under 4 hours this time! The biggest problem I think will be the risk of injury while training. I was supposed to run the marathon in 2001 but injured my knee. This time I will be following a 24 week training programme (from next Monday). In the future months I will no doubt post on training from time to time.

p.s for the avoidance of any doubt I will not be raising money for the Tower Hamlets Mayor fund this time, no matter how worthy these charities will no doubt be :)