This will be my third consecutive year running the BUPA Great North Run. This will be my first year running in aid of Arthritis Research. In previous years I ran with the Newcastle University Water Polo team, rather scantily clad in my swimming gear.

I will run, this year, for my wonderful and lovely friend Whitney Edmondson who has done amazing things for the Arthritis Research in Lakeland, but unfortunately cannot run herself. I also run in aid of those who suffer from the awful illness such as my Grandmother and Mother.

Arthritis Research UK do some incredible work, not only in trying to find ways  to cure the illness but also in supporting those who suffer from it. Anything you can spare would go to help a wonderful cause!

For the past two years I have ran it in under two hours, and am aiming to run it in under an hour and forty-five minutes this year (hopefully without a water polo costume wedgie).My dad previously ran the GNR in one hour forty-three minutes, and will not let me live it down if I don't beat him! So help me raise money for a great cause and wipe a smug look off a Yorkshire man's face!

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. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you :)

Lauren xxx