Hi everyone, I’ve decided (Perhaps somewhat recklessly) to run the Yorkshire Marathon in October to raise money for Support After Rape and Sexual Violence Leeds (SARSVL)

The importance of SARSVL almost goes without saying – SARSVL is the dedicated rape crisis centre for Leeds and supports all women and girls in Leeds who have been affected by sexual violence of any kind at any time in their lives. Their services are trans and sex worker inclusive. Demand for their support is sky high, and they are in need of as much money as possible to carry out their incredibly important work. So please give as generously as you can, knowing that your contribution will directly help women in need, be it with advocacy, counselling or supportive listening over their free helpline.

I’m also running the marathon in memory of my lovely friend Mary Swan who sadly died last year. Mary was a founder of SARSVL, a talented Garden Designer and all-round wonderful person – empathetic, fiercely intelligent and (at times) brilliantly silly. I am proud to say I was friends with someone who helped set up such an important organisation as SARSVL.