Hello there and thank you for visiting my fundraising page for the 2011 Bupa Great North Run.  

As many of you will know, this is my third Great North Run. (The medals are certainly mounting up - I'll be needing a display cabinet soon.)

 

So far I have run the 13.1 miles in warm sunshine (my first year) and torrential rain with intermittent drizzle (last year).  Who knows what this year will bring?  

 

Not that it matters – the Great North Run (as I may have mentioned in the past) has a wonderful, friendly atmosphere.  And it is, of course, the world’s most iconic half- marathon.   I may have mentioned that in the past, too.

 

This year I’m running for AEA – Action on Elder Abuse.   The charity works in the UK and Ireland and focuses exclusively on protecting, and preventing, the abuse of vulnerable older adults. 

 

AEA was established in 1993 by practitioners from health and social care, academics and representatives of the voluntary sector.  All were concerned about the lack of information and assistance for those who were abused or were at risk of abusing.  Today, AEA addresses abuse within people's own homes (by family, friends or paid staff), within sheltered housing, and within care homes and hospitals.

 

I know some of you are aware of the excellent work of AEA and may have heard Richard Briers presenting their very moving Radio 4 Appeal back in April.  But if you're unfamiliar with the work of the charity, please take a few minutes to look at their website : www.elderabuse.org.uk 

 

Then click back here to sponsor me (even just a few pennies and please remember to tick 'Gift Aid' if appropriate).  

 

You can also leave your messages of support or - more likely - ridicule, as I take on the challenge of running 13.1 miles in the company of various superheroes, children’s tv characters, and soap stars!   

 

Once again, many thanks, all.  It's much appreciated.

 

Christine