Hi, I trained all winter for the London marathon but it was one of the many events to fall foul of COVID. Now I face a bigger challenge as I am running a virtual London marathon – but with no crowds to cheer me on! I will be running 26 miles round the lanes near home on Sunday October 4th.

Months ago I chose to run for the Stroke Association in memory of my Dad who had a miserable last 9 months after two strokes. Literally as I write this appeal my 92 year old mother-in-law is on the stroke ward in hospital as she has just had another stroke herself.  

My close friend Alison is only alive due to pioneering surgery at Oxford after a brain bleed. She is incredible in her determination to keep living her life to the full despite losing her sight.  I'm sure you all know someone affected by a stroke - it can strike at anytime. There is still so much more we could do to combat Strokes and brain bleeds.

The Stroke Association is the UK's leading stroke charity, carrying out research and delivering amazing, life-changing support to over 70,000 stroke survivors and their families each year. Without fundraisers they could not provide this support and research. Like all charities they have suffered a reduction in income as a result of the effects of  COVID. 

If you are able to sponsor me I would be extremely grateful as the Stroke Association do such amazing work. It is a cause that is very important to me.  Thank you.