Thanks for taking time to read my story and, hopefully, donating to my cause!

'Times it by Ten' describes the direction of my new-found love of off-road running. I've been into various cycling disciplines for years and would probably only have ever contemplated running if I had to chase someone that had stolen one of my bikes! But time pressures, and being a 'dog dad' to two energetic Hungarian Vizslas, lead me to taking up some short distance running, meaning I could run with my dogs for 5km or so and be more efficient with my spare time. I then dipped my toes into doing my local Park Run a few months ago, again based on a 5km circuit, and actually started to enjoy it.

So I've now paid my entry fee and signed up to The John Muir Way Ultra Marathon on 9th March 2024, so guess I should start thinking about some training, huh......

And that's the explanation of 'Times it by Ten' - going from 5km Park Runs to a 50km Ultra Marathon! Well, if you're gonna do something, I always say jump in with both feet. And be sure you make a big splash while doing it.

It's very much a personal challenge for me, but some of you will know that I also volunteer for a charity: Who Dares Cares. Although the majority of the people the charity help come from some form of military background, they are also here to help anyone from the Blue Light Services, including their families, who suffer signs and symptoms of PTSD. This can be anything from trauma to a bereavement. While the charity don’t have any full time staff, their volunteers come from a range of military, health and social care backgrounds, with many having completed courses in counselling.

WHAT IS PTSD?

PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events. Commonly affecting members of the Armed Forces and the Emergency Services, those who have PTSD may suffer from flashbacks, nightmares and feelings of guilt or isolation. According to the NHS, 1 in 3 people who have a traumatic experience will go on to experience PTSD as a result. Who Dares Cares is an Armed Forces and Blue Light Services charity here to provide support for you and your family whenever you need us.