Last year I ran the London Marathon for the first time and I can honestly say it was probably the most physically painful but ultimately the most exhilarating thing I have ever done. The personal sense of achievement was only superseded by the enormous satisfaction I felt, knowing that I had raised a considerable sum for my chosen charity, World Jewish Relief. It was only afterwards when the official photos became available that I realised that every shot of me looked like I was scowling - so this year my aim is to get at least one photo of me smiling – hopefully the one where I cross the finish line!

Training has been interrupted as last year by several bouts of illness, hence the late request for donations because I wanted to make sure that I was fit to run. I am happy to say I have caught up with my training and hopefully there will be no other setbacks between now and the 24th April so anyone with even the slightest hint of a cold is being kept well away!

I am raising money again for WJR, a charity which not only helps Jewish causes but also responds to emergencies like floods, famines, earthquakes and wars, which put millions of lives in danger. WJR responds to these disasters by providing emergency relief as well as supporting longer term recovery efforts.

I really appreciate your support and hope to beat last year’s time with a smile!