In May last year, nineteen colleagues of mine and I set off to the Peak District to take part in the Marie Curie Great Escape Challenge. It was a fantastic weekend, hugely enjoyed by all, and I had the pleasure of charging around the Derbyshire countryside with Kirsten, Lauren and Richard.

I look back on that weekend with fond memories of an energetic, enthusiastic and sparkling friend and teammate, Kirsten, who unknowingly was soon to be diagnosed with a cancer that would take her in the prime of her life.

The enjoyment that our Peak District adventure brought Kirsten made me want to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care once again, and subsequently I signed up for the Royal Parks Half Marathon with very happy memories in my mind.

In a bid to encourage you to reach a little deeper into your pockets, I have set myself the reckless challenge of trying to run the 13.1 miles in 1hr 30mins. Audacious and foolhardy are just a couple of words that spring to mind, but I do hope that they will also encourage you to support my endeavour.

Thank you so very much,

Alexander