Why I'm running the Edinburgh Half Marathon to raise money for the brilliant Willow Foundation

Anyone who knows me will know that I'm not really the running type.

Yes, I did complete the London Marathon a few years back for a charity close to my heart. Even now I'm not sure how I managed to get from Greenwich to the Mall - all 26.2 miles of it - in one piece.

A particularly low point was being overtaken by an unconvincing rhinoceros and a wobbly lighthouse at around 17 miles. Or at least I think it was a rhino, although it could have just as easily been a peculiar triceratops and a mill tower, so close was I to hallucinating with the pain.

However, I take great pride in saying that despite severe cramps in both my hamstrings and calfs, the feeling of achievement in having that medal around my neck a matter of metres from Buckingham Palace at the end of a gruelling 26 miles was something I will never forget.

Nor was the goodwill of the crowd, and the humbling - and at times - overwhelming generosity of so many good people, near and far, who sponsored my efforts before and after the race. It's something I'm still amazed about. And grateful.

People said to me that I would 'get the running bug'. Well, I didn't. I won't even run across the road if a car is heading in my direction.

So, for those people who know me, who will be wondering just why I'm pulling on the old running shoes again, here's why:

I think there are two reasons really.

Firstly, lockdown. Even as a journalist who was allowed outside to work during that dismal period, I appreciate, even now, the simplicity of being out and about again. It is something that I cherish. I hate being inside. I love being outside.

Which is why, my partner and I promised ourselves that once the pandemic subsided we would sign up to do a run. And the Edinburgh Half Marathon at the end of May seemed a perfect fit.

Secondly, after having raised thousands for charity last time out, I decided that it was time for a good deed again. Having met up with the good people at Willow, in their offices in Welywn - and, as the editor of the Gooner Fazine, knowing just how much good work Willow do - it was a no-brainer to offer to try and raise a bit of cash for the Herts-based charity.

So, here we are. I understand just how many belts are being tightened at the moment, but if there is any way you can stump up a few quid it would be so very much appreciated by so many people at Willow - and those who benefit from what they offer.. It goes without saying every penny raised will go to Willow.

Here's the link here if you are feeling generous. Thank you for reading.

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Willow is the only national charity working with seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40 to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days. 

PS: Nub News regional editor Layth and his partner Faye will be fundraising for the brilliant Willow by running the Edinburgh half marathon at the end of May, with every single penny raised going to Willow. If you would like to sponsor/donate please click here

If you are thinking about fundraising for Willow please contact Maria Alexander for more information 01707 259 777 or email [email protected]