Having applied for loads of Olympic tickets, and then discovered that they had all been given to corporates and German schoolchildren, I have decided to make my own entertainment next year....by running 2012 kilometres (sorry, miles were just too long!) during the year to raise money for two causes close to my heart.

This will entail running just about every day, come rain or shine. If I miss a day, it will mean 7 miles the next day, and if I miss a week, it will mean a marathon. Each week, all year. Running will be at or over 7.5mph (ie real running!) and my only concession to common sense is that I will allow myself one catch-up cycle ride each month if I get behind.

I want to raise significant funds for, and awareness of, The Rifles' Regimental appeal, Care for Casualties. Over 50 of my old Regiment's soldiers have been killed on active service in the last 5 years, and over 300 seriously injured. Whilst help is currently provided in many effective and expert ways, ultimately it will be the regiment who will be able to make the difference for the small but important things some of the worst affected soldiers and their families may need. They gave everything, and should therefore have the best.

In writing this, I am well aware that you have many demands on your charitable giving, and may well have supported this particular cause before. Equally, even the smallest donation would be brilliant, and possibly just enough to keep me ploughing on! Thank you.

Roger