Please don't ask me why I'm running a marathon, I have no idea. What I do know is that the Bobby Moore Fund is an utterly fab charity, it's the part of Cancer Research UK that raises money for bowel cancer research. Bowel cancer is the UK's second most common cause of cancer death after lung cancer; about 100 people a day are diagnosed with it and 44 people a day die of it. Thousands more friends and family have their lives adversely affected by it which, by the way, totally sucks.

This will be my first (and almost certainly last) attempt at the classic 26.2 mile dash. Training is well underway, much to amusement of the 'real' runners round my way who have adapted to the sight of me huffing and puffing along the South Bank pretty well. Edinburgh will never have seen anything quite like this.......

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!

Clarifications:
1. The term 'running' will be deemed to include running, jogging, walking, limping, hobbling and, around mile 19, some kind of tearful temper tantrum
2. I will definatly run this marathon except in case of serious disabling injury. Note to self, serious disabling injury does not include: feeling like I'm 'coming down with something', having a 'twinge', being hungover, general bad hair day.
3. I will not come last; might be close to last, but not last.

A bit about Bowel Cancer (in case you're worried)
1. Don't die of embarrasment - go and get checked by your doc!
Main symptoms include: bleeding from your bum, change in habit to looser or more persistant pooing, tummy pain or a lump in your tummy. If you have any of these symptoms it's very very unlikely to be cancer, but best to play safe eh?
2. Like all cancers, bowel cancer is best treated early - if caught early over 80% survive - so go get checked!
3. 66% of bowel cancer is preventable - eat fruit & veg, get some excercise, stay at a healthy weight, cut down on fatty food & quit smoking

so please... show me the money! thanks