Hi all and thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page for StreetGames.

This the second fundraising challenge that I have set myself for the year ahead, and I'm sure most of you will also hear about the first one too!

I have always wanted to run a half marathon but it took me a number of years before I ever did so. Due to some persuasion and encouragement (thanks Louise!) I decided to enter the 2012 Great North Run. I loved every minute of it (well perhaps not the bleeding nipples but I'm finally over that psychological trauma) and decided to enter it again this year.

Over Christmas I managed to persuade a couple of friends to join me only to find out that I was the only one who failed to get a place through the main ballot. I therefore decided I should run for a charity which I probably should have done last year too. The run involves over 50,000 runners and down to the support and generosity of the North East public, it is a fantastic occasion to be part of.

The charity that I am therefore supporting is StreetGames. I am passionate about sport and believe it is something that everyone should have access to. I couldn't talk about them any better than they talk about themselves so, in their own words...

StreetGames is a sports charity that changes lives and communities. We do it by supporting a network of projects which give sports and volunteering opportunities to young people in disadvantaged communities across the UK. Doorstep sport is StreetGames’ delivery method, whereby we bring sport close to the home in disadvantaged communities at the right time, for the right price, to the right place and in the right style.

The aim of each StreetGames project, accredited by StreetMark, is to be sustainable and become part of the fabric of the community. This leads to stronger and safer communities, a championing of social action and volunteering, as well as improved health and wellbeing.

StreetGames is proud that it gives young people exactly what they’re seeking – the chance to enjoy sport, give back to their communities and aspire to greater things. The enthusiasm that this breeds leads to an increase in sports participation and a recognition of the enjoyment that can be gained from taking part in sport.

At StreetGames we offer our projects Us Girls, The Co-operative StreetGames Young Volunteers, StreetGames – Legacy Leaders and Training Academy programmes to maximise their chances of creating positive change

Fortunately for me Streetgames have not asked me to raise a fortune on their behalf. However, without them I would have been unable to take part this year so I have set myself a target of £250 which I hope you will be able to support me in achieving.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.

Thanks all x