For me, the Bath Half Marathon is not just a chance to take part in an endurance event, but more importantly a chance to highlight the growing need for the work of Julian House - a charity that I am proud to have been associated with for many years.

I am dismayed, as I am sure many of you are, that the demand for our services is growing rapidly in the face of increasingly austere economic circumstances.  I know that money can be tight even for those lucky enough to have regular employment.  We are all facing up to energy and cost of living pressures.

However, I think that this is exactly the moment for us to show kindness and compassion in an environment that seems to move away from these essential human values with each successive policy headline.

Julian House is a charity that supports over 2,000 vulnerable and at-risk individuals each year.  These include adults and young people experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic abuse, adults with learning difficulties, refugees fleeing conflict zones like Syria and Afghanistan, and people who need support after leaving prison.

Our goal is to build a just society where socially excluded people are supported and empowered to build sustainable, independent lives.

If you can help - even a small amount will make a difference to our amazing people!

Thank you for taking the time to read my appeal!

David