As a retired rugby player who oddly started enjoying running a few years back, the London marathon has always been on my bucket list...

I now spend my weekends coaching Tring 2s, but have had my fair share of injuries during 25 years on the pitch. While they've all healed and the long term effects are simply scar tissue and achy joints, more research is needed into how our brains cope with the inevitable collisions in the contact sport we know and love.

Seeing the impact dementia has had on my Nan Queenie, my wife's late Poppa Jack, and having personally met Steve Thompson, more support is required for those suffering with dementia, regardless of their age.

So far this year I've clocked over 260 miles of hard yards on the roads and trails, so any money I can raise for two fantastic charities doing great work in this area would be amazing!

Head for Change (this page) are leading the way in sports related concussion research, providing education, and supporting ex-players who are affected by neurodegenerative disease.

I also have another fundraising page for Dementia UK who provide life-changing support for families affected by all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

I was hoping to raise money in a single place and split the funds 50/50 but that doesn't seem to be possible. Instead, please either split any donation manually between the two, or choose the cause that appeals most.

Cheers,

Hicksy