This year I will be attempting to run my first London Marathon running for The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (RJAH) , the leading orthopaedic centre of excellence in Gobowen, North Shropshire and a special place for our family. Not only will it be my first London Marathon, it will be my first ever marathon and the first time that I have raised money for RJAH.

I have long had the ambition and desire to run the marathon in London but things have always got in the way and, being honest, I'm a fair weather runner and the thought of training through the winter put me off! This year's event being held in October, plus the fact that I've just turned 40 and still not yet run a marathon, has spurred me on to attempt this mighty event.

I'm delighted also to be running for RJAH, as a family we have always tried to support RJAH ever since my wife (Foot and ankle specialist nurse Bethan Mallen) started working in Gobowen way back in 2010. 

I have wonderful support from Bethan, my three children Kitty, Idris and Gruff and friends and family. I'm looking forward to the event and to getting out clocking up the miles in training around Mold over the next few months.

Thanks for reading and for you support. Tom