The perfect storm started in 1965 when Professor Norman Ashton CBE, my great uncle founded Fight for Sight to assist his work as a leader in research into eye diseases to prevent sight loss.

Forward a few years and you have my entire family inadvertently dressed exclusively in Fight for Sight stash (doing our bit look).

Then a few years ago I reconnected with, what has evolved to be a great charity committing £16 million between 2007-2013 in new grants from research, to initial clinical trials leading, in part, to a $34m round of funding (think Extraordinary Measures starring Harrison and Brendan Fraser).  Also feel free to ask about my personal homage to Fight for Sight.

Meanwhile I had since moved to Jersey which, although beautiful,  doesn't offer much to do other than run along coastal roads.........and so brews the storm........

During an update call with Fight for Sight it became apparent that due to injuries two places became available for the Marathon and so, with 10 weeks to go, I over zealously agreed (as did Jon).

Which leads me to my pitch, I would be most grateful for any contribution that you can make to a great charity.  Fight for Sight is one of the few that is trying to prevent sight loss, something I believe we can take for granted.

And for those (like me) who struggle to pay someone to complete their bucket list.  Rest assured I am in no way excited about this marathon and so you are paying for my pain (I know that will motivate some of you).

Thank you in advance for your generosity.   All I will need is your sort code, bank account number and mothers maiden name ; )