2 years ago my partner Georgina Beveridge and I joined our local Slimming World group with the aim of trying to lose weight. 17 and a half stones later between us, and in less than 12 months as members, we both hit target weight. I have lost half my bodyweight and Jo over 6 and a half stone. Together we were shocked and amazed to be crowned Slimming World Couple of the Year 2023 in May this year.

Prior to losing the weight, although I thought I was active, the truth was exercise was a chore and even a short walk caused aches and pains. As the weight came off I started to enjoy the exercise and wanted to improve my general fitness levels, not least because we had been blessed with grandchildren, and I was determined not to be the grandparent who couldn't be active with them.

18 months ago I tried running for the first time in many years as I couldn't have run to the end of my block prior to joining Slimming World. Fast forward to today and I have completed several runs including 2 marathons, and I am active everyday, participating in gym classes, walking groups and parkrun regularly, even fitting this in around marathon training, which I never thought possible.

Being selected to represent Slimming World to run the London Marathon in 2024 is a dream come true, and I can't wait to meet the rest of my amazing teammates, made up of Slimming World consultants, staff and fellow members. Together we are raising money for SMILES. Slimming World's own charity, to benefit Cancer Research UK, The Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer's Research UK.

I will be running on behalf of Slimming World and Alzheimer's Research UK. This condition is so debilitating and destroys lives and memories. We have first hand experience of the impact of the condition, along with the difficulties and changes to everyday life that it causes, as one of our close family members was struck down with this condition.

For me it will be an absolute privilege and honour to raise funds for this amazing charity and enable them to continue their work into finding causes and ways to control Alzheimer's.

I am also doing this for all my fellow Slimming World members, staff and consultants, without whose support, guidance and help I would not be capable of completing this challenge to help others.

I hope together we can show the positive impact Slimming World has had on our lives, and inspire others to follow their dreams and start or continue their own journeys and reach and surpass where they ever thought they could be, just as I have, because if I can anyone can.

Please support all of us as much as you are able by donating whatever you can to help us achieve our aim of supporting these amazing charities.