A year ago running a marathon couldn't have been any further from my mind, I remember watching the 2010 Brighton marathon, seeing my sister run past and immediately turning to my wife saying " I'm doing this next year" raised eyebrows and a little chuckle was the response.

At 38 and overweight I started the daunting preparation. Out with the pasties and cakes and in with the pasta and spuds. I've now clocked up almost 600 miles, lost 2 1/2 stone, completed the Brighton half marathon and I'm on my second pair of trainers.

I chose my charity (Friends of Downs View School) primarily because my sister ran for them last year, but I now feel like every mile I have put my body through over the last year will contribute to helping less fortunate children cope and enjoy their schooling.

Please take a minute to visit their website to see what they are all about.                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Many thanks of any donation large or small