No, it’s not a joke. Thanks to a few of my nearest and dearest (namely Rich, who was so convinced of my unfitness he bet me an engagement ring I couldn’t run a half marathon, Nic who pulled the “go on, if you enter I’ll enter” trick and conveniently didn’t get a place herself, and Becky who has bullied me into keeping on running despite having already received my engagement ring) I have ended up with a place in this year’s Great North Run.

Mo Farah, it is safe to say, I am not. Despite the best efforts of my dad when I was growing up, I am resolutely NOT sporty (as anyone who has witnessed me taking part in any kind of physical activity can testify). However, since Bec dragged me on my first run of the year in the cold and wet, where after 5 minutes I felt like I was about to hyperventilate, pass out and vomit all at the same time, I have tried my best to become a runner.

I haven’t caught the bug; I think I must be immune to it, and it’s probably safe to say that I will be hanging up my running shoes on 17 September. But on the 16 I will give it my best go!

I’ve chosen to support Macmillan because they really do provide amazing support to people living with cancer and their families when they need it most. They rely on donations to be able to keep doing such great work so please give as generously as you can and it will make all my blisters worthwhile!

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.

So please dig deep and donate now.