Some of you will know that completing a marathon has long been a goal of mine but unfortunately, injury and surgery over the last few years have somewhat inconveniently interfered! I'm unlikely to break any records, but I'm hoping that this year will finally be my year to make it to the start line, and more importantly, cross the finish line!

The charity I have chosen to raise money for is one that many of my friends have been closely involved with for many years.

TackleAfrica use football coaching programmes to deliver HIV education directly to young people in Africa on the pitch. The charity was founded in May 2002 by a group of young people from the UK who had all lived or worked in Africa at some point in their lives.

From these origins, the charity has grown to work regularly with 14 local partners in 6 African countries, reaching over 20,000 young people each year.  

More information can be found at www.tackleafrica.org

Any amount, however large or small, will be most gratefully received.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer.