Cards on the table - I am not a natural runner, have never run a marathon before and will never run one again. I am not exactly of an age normally associated with embarking on a long distance running career either. This is a ridiculous distance, and it makes no sense from any perspective. It is arguably not even healthy. However what does make sense is putting the human body through this to raise funds so other people may have access to some education, healthcare and even basic nutrition and shelter. I hope that makes some sense to you too.

CAFOD works with local partners and communities across the world to combat poverty and the causes of poverty - responding to emergencies, promoting long-term development and raising public awareness of the causes of poverty. We work with people of all faiths and none for a safe, sustainable and peaceful world.

A final note, please don't fall into the trap of donating to Justgiving themselves, or feeling like you have to - they make it as least obvious as possible to avoid this, but it is very straightforward with a bit of attention to where you are clicking.