Hello folks and thank you for visiting my fundraising page.

I haven't taken part in a sponsored event since I ran the London Marathon in 2006 and so when I was fortunate enough to gain a place through the open ballot in the Great North Run 2012, I decided I'd like to take the opportunity to attempt to raise some funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in memory of our youngest son, George, who sadly and suddenly passed away in March 2003 at the age of 2 years, 9 months.

As many of you are already aware, the British Heart Foundation is a cause which has become very close to my family. George was born with a congenital heart condition called Fallots Tetralogy and despite the treatment and care which he received during his all too short time with us, this was ultimately the cause of his untimely passing. One of my main motivating factors in wishing to take part in the Great North Run 2012 on behalf of the British Heart Foundation is because it is my way of trying to say an adequate "Thank You" for the care and support that the BHF provided for Georgie throughout his life.

And so this year, after several years of inactivity (and piling on the pounds), I decided to dust off my running shoes and get back to being proactive for others, as well as for myself. Even though I've done a number of half marathons over the years and managed to complete the London Marathon in 2006, I had always wanted to take part in the Great North Run, the world's largest half marathon. So in January 2012, I applied and luckily got a place at my first attempt! Next came the process of starting my training - which was a case of beginning from infancy (it really was akin to walk before you can run!) and my return to running has been a long, hard slog but slowly - and I can't emphasise enough the word "slowly" - it has begun to come back - much to my relief!

Whilst the BHF are a national charity with a high profile, like many other charities at the current time, they are finding that fundraising is increasingly difficult as a consequence of the economic climate. And like many other charities, the BHF is a fantastic cause and one that I am very proud to be supporting.

So please dig deep and help me as best you can, so that I may help the BHF to remain as the Nation's Heart Charity and continue their good work of pioneering research and providing support, care and information for heart patients. There are many who have had their lives prolonged as a result of the research, treatment and care made possible by the British Heart Foundation.

If there are others who know me, or who you think would be prepared to sponsor me, please feel free to spread the word and pass this message on!

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.

Many thanks for your support,

Chris Boynton