I am running the marathon this year because Center Points fundamental role of helping the vulnerable young people in our society is one we should all be aware of and be working towards eradicating

We have a member of our family with mental health issues and this illness is not well supported in the community, due to various factors. The anguish experienced both by the individual who is ill  and the wider members of family can be overwhelming, add into that that social deprivation, and everything just breaks down. There is just no capacity to deal with the illness as well and everyday life.

Our systems both in school and community do not have the resources to effectively manage and get to the bottom of issues which young people face in our modern world and too often they can just be dismissed as stroppy teenagers, or angry young people.

To be able to raise money to help these vulnerable young people to become good and productive member of society is a small way in which I can help. 

This will be my 3rd London Marathon and it will probably be my last, so running for this fantastic charity will be an honour, as I will then ease down to half marathon's and to try and keep up with my 9year old son George, who is a sports nut!