I'm running the 2024 Oxford Half Marathon for The Story Museum....in costume!

I grew up on Beatrix Potter, Winnie-the-Poo and the Secret Seven. My Mum read us the Hobbit and, every year on Christmas Eve, my sisters and I would recite 'The Night Before Christmas' to any neighbour kind enough to listen.

Philip Pullman wrote “stories are the most important thing in the world. Without stories we wouldn’t be human beings at all." And I completely agree. Sadly, many children grow up without experiencing them.

The Story Museum aims to change that. It works to ensure all children have access to the rich story content and skill development opportunities they deserve - whether that's in school, at home, in local family centres or, of course, at the magical and fantastical galleries in Pembroke Street.

I care passionately about literacy and the power of stories. And to prove it, I have signed-up to run half a marathon dressed as a character from a children’s book – suggestions welcome!

It’s twenty years since I ran this far and extending my short plods around the village into 13 miles seems pretty challenging in running kit, let alone in fancy dress!

Every penny of your sponsorship will give me that extra incentive to push that little bit harder to raise funds for this wonderful, unusual, life-enhancing and utterly vital Museum.

Thank you!