Hi everyone.

As you may or may not know I'll be running this years Great North Run in September. 

This is the first time I've attempted a run for charity, so for the past few months have been making as much effort as I can to get myself ready for the distance, after the fairly feeble, non-charity attempt I made at my one and only outing in this event in 2011. I've taken training far more seriously on this occasion, though Sir Mo doesn't really have any reason to lose any sleep as yet.

I'll be doing the run in support of Zoe's Place, its likely you'll have heard of the organisation, but if not then please have a quick look at the link, it's a cause I'm sure everyone support and there's no doubting the value of the work they carry out, in what must be very difficult circumstances for those involved.

Anyone that has seen me drag myself around a ParkRun (photo stolen from an Albert Park event earlier this year - clearly on the first lap round as I don't look a dishevelled mess), or the Middlesbrough 5/10k every year can probably attest to my typical running capability, and though I'm just aiming for a respectable time, the main target is to run as far into the race as I can without resorting to walking (at the time of writing I'm about 70% there in training, temperatures dependent!).

However far of the aforementioned distance I make it it's an event I know I'll enjoy taking part in, and if I get round in one piece, or without literally physically melting, I'll be happy.

I'll be posting the odd Fitbit tracker activity screenshot in the updates, just to show I am taking training seriously!

Anyway anything at all you would be able to contribute in support I would be extremely grateful for, and would be massively appreciated.

Thank you