This year, much to my shock (and horror), I was successful in the ballot for a place in the London Marathon. After careful consideration - I am not a natural distance runner - I decided to accept the place.

I then thought that this would be a good opportunity to fundraise, with the added bonus of this also being a big motivator for me to get on with training and actually having some sort of chance of completing the event!

I have decided to fundraise for the RNLI. Having spent a lot of my life near the sea, I know how important their role is. The volunteer crews are ready to go out in all weather conditions, 24hrs a day, seven days a week. They put their own lives at risk to save others with no reward other than the satisfaction of doing so.

The RNLI receives no Government funding and is completely reliant on donations. These are a few examples of the money needed for the crew, not including the cost of running the boats and the fuel needed everytime they launch:

• Helmet - £263
• Lifejacket - £458
• Waterproof trousers - £249
• Drysuit - £750
• Thermal undersuit - £225
• Gloves - £20
• Boots - £54

I would like to raise as much money as I can and all donations will be gratefully received.

Thank you for reading my story.