Little did I realise last year post a couple of relatively minor operations that I may not be able to run again after a life of stop, start with my dear old running shoes.

This realisation came to question my future choices as something so central to ones purpose is removed.

Many a run I had enjoyed pounding along a towpath enjoying the routes the canals presented, the history laid by our forbears carving a unique passage in our history & time.

Those reflections lead to a decision to retire in August from the NHS and move my life, lock,  narrowboat & barrel to explore the canal system.

And as if from nowhere the surgeon recently suggested better news and running or rather plodding may well be possible again.   

So here we are, an opportunity to support the CRT with canalathon as it comes into view this July.

I'd appreciate any donations you can make as I attempt to reach 26.2 miles 'running' in July to help support this vital resource we have to raise money to protect the nation's 200-year-old canals and the wildlife-rich green corridors that they provide.

" Almost nine million people live less than a mile from one of the Trusts waterways, making them popular and accessible places to exercise. In towns and cities, they provide vital blue and green spaces where people can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and clear their heads, making people feel healthier and happier. But looking after these precious spaces is costly and takes many hands. By fundraising for us, you are helping us create more special spaces by water in our cities and towns. Together we can help nature flourish, protect the heritage of our canals in the face of climate change and deliver health, happiness and wellbeing to millions of people. "

Thank you, lloydy