Ali West runs the London Marathon 2012

When I left the army a few months ago I decided to run the London Marathon to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund - The Soldier's Charity. During my time in Afghanistan during the summer of 2010, my Brigade suffered hundreds of casualties, and far too many soldiers lost their lives. The Soldier's Charity provide life long support to those who need it, and sadly the number of people requiring their help is growing every year. I feel so passionately about making sure that injured soldiers and beareaved military families get all the help they need and deserve. The charity will be so grateful for all donations, no matter how small. Your support will motivate me round every one of the 26.2miles!

The 2012 London Marathon will be extra special for me because my older sister Jennifer is also running it, and we will be running in memory of our Nana, Josephine Hicks, who died in April 2011. The day of the marathon is Jennifer's 1st wedding anniversary! You can find her fundraising page in support of 'Right to Play' here:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/theoystonsisters