This November, I'll be running from Bristol to London, 280km, to increase awareness around the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and to open up a conversation that needs to be had at all levels - from friendship groups to businesses to parliament.

My sister, Katy, passed away two years ago having struggled with alcoholism for over a decade, she was only 30.

She was an incredible person. Funny, beautiful, ridiculously intelligent and she loved her friends & family so much. Her dependence on alcohol had become a vicious spiral, impacting relationships, career prospects, and mental & physical health. No matter how hard she or her loved ones tried, she couldn't escape.

Low prices, lack of health warnings, glamorous marketing, cultural acceptance (even praise) of drinking and a negative stigma around discussing drinking problems, create a world that encourages excessive alcohol consumption. For anyone who has suffered, directly or indirectly, it can feel like a very alcohol-dominated world.

I believe lives can be saved with subtle changes and I'm partnering with Alcohol Change, a fantastic charity whose mission I fully believe in. In their own words: ‘we are not anti-alcohol; we are for alcohol change.’

Alcohol Change are working tirelessly to create a world free of alcohol harm and has been so supportive of my run and personal goals. They are the original team behind Dry January and other amazing campaigns, with their support I am confident my run can have an impact.

I've already been so touched by the number of people who have spoken up since I started fundraising, from close friends to new connections, explaining their own 'alcohol stories'. It's a huge taboo in society and breaking down these barriers is a huge part of Alcohol Change's goals.

More change is needed and I will continue to be vocal, challenging the government and alcohol brands on low prices, a lack of health warnings on alcohol in physical and online shops, plus regulation on marketing campaigns.

I massively appreciate your support and donations. I would also love to see as many of you as possible on the run, either in Bristol, en route, or at the finish line in London... more details on how to join coming soon, any donations are massively appreciated.

Tom Harding 👊