People

I joined Brathay Trust in 2001 and held various management roles before becoming Head of Fundraising in January 2009. I’m now responsible for developing Brathay’s fundraising strategy and managing the Fundraising Team to ensure the sustainability of funds across all of our regions.

I have worked for Brathay Trust for the last 12 years and currently hold the post of Staffing Officer.  My role involves matching the most appropriate member of permanent staff or associate consultant to specific events and programmes. Getting the match right is vital to ensure the Young People get the best possible experience. Working in such an inspirational place, with some fantastic people and seeing first hand the great work we do is very rewarding. 

Having moved away from the Rhondda Valley in South Wales I now live in Ulverston with my husband Mac (an outdoor education teacher) and sons Gareth (22) and Morgan (14), who are all keen rugby players and enthusiasts.

I didn’t start running until I was well in my 30’s. In fact I have to admit I was a bit of a couch potato – overweight and not at all fit.

I ran my first marathon in London at the age of 38, 5 months after the birth of Morgan, in a time of 4:58. I then went on to run a few more marathons (all London) and a few 2 day mountain marathons. 

My 5^th marathon was in 2007 – the Brathay Windermere Marathon. Leading up to this event the inaugural 10in10 was taking place. I watched these 7 athletes in awe of what they were achieving. How on earth could they run 10 marathons, 262 miles in 10 days – madness!!

However, I was inspired and the seed was sown.

In 2008 the 10in10 event included 3 ladies. It was then that I started to believe that maybe I could be a part of that elite group if I was to train hard and mentally prepare.

I entered the 2009 event and I gradually built my mileage up from 20-25 miles a week to over 70. I ran back to back marathons, trained in wet and wintry Lake District weather conditions, and clocked up another 6 official marathons over the year. My Personal Best time of 3:44 was achieved in April at Lochaber – 2 weeks before the 10in10. Everything had gone to plan and I went into the event feeling fit and strong and mentally prepared.

It was amazing!!!

I completed the 10in10 in 2009 and once again in 2010. I am proud to be a part of a special group of elite athletes who have completed this event.  Also, to have raised over £8000 has meant young people have benefitted directly from my experience. It made the pain all worth while. 

Details of my journey and what I went through can be found by following the link to my blogs:  http://www.brathaywindermeremarathon.org.uk/blog/alyson-knowles-10-in-10.aspx

This year I have taken on the organisation of the 10in10. I have supported the runners over the last 12 months and will do my best to ensure the event goes as smoothly as possible for them. I am looking forward to being a part of the 10in10 for many years to come.

The 10in10 epitomises what Brathay is all about….inspirational people who inspire others.

I have worked at Brathay since 2008 as part of the fundraising team following a move to the Lake District after living in the French Alps for 5 years. My previous experience centres around tourism but I was looking for a new challenge so joined Brathay’s fundraising team as a Fundraising co-ordinator.

I’ve been connected with Brathay for over 24 years as Andy, my husband,  has worked there in the Corporate Development team for what seems like forever.

2010 was the first time I had volunteered to man a water station, as part of the Cumberland Building Society's sponsorship of the event (I'm Branch Manager Kendal, Windermere & Ambleside). I've worked for them for 21 years and in my spare time I volunteer for the RSPB in Haweswater, helping to look after England's only Golden Eagle.

Freemasons have always regarded Charity, the care and support of those less fortunate than ourselves, as one of our most important principles. It is fitting that the Freemasons' Grand Charity have made donations to Brathay Trust during the past few years to assist them in their aims of integrating disadvantaged young people into society. But we know that not only must we give money but our time as well. This is why the Freemasons' Province of Cumberland and Westmorland has been delighted to join our colleagues in the Province of West Lancashire in marshalling the annual Brathay Windermere Marathon; not only does this splendid event provide important funds for Brathay but enables the many competitors to raise sponsorship for their favourite charities.

Sir Christopher Ball is the Founder of Campaign for Learning, Chairman of Talent Foundation, former Chancellor of University of Derby, Fellow of Brathay Trust……………and Founder of the Brathay 10 in 10! 

Joss Naylor really needs no introduction – he’s undoubtedly the most accomplished and iconic endurance fell runner ever.

We’ve been connected to Brathay since 2007 when I completed the inaugural Brathay 10 in 10 and Teresa provided the roadside drinks support to the runners going round the course each day. We both thoroughly enjoyed our time at Brathay and saw first hand not only the importance of the work that Brathay do with disadvantaged children and young people but also what an inspirational place it is. We were both inspired to return to not only raise more money for Brathay but also support an incredible event that we had become extremely passionate about.

We value the fact that Brathay are taking a lead role in transforming the lives of disadvantaged children, who in many cases, through no fault of their own, find themselves mixed up with the wrong kind of people, doing the wrong things and going nowhere in life. Brathay provides an opportunity for these youngsters to show that there is hope and that there is an alternate path such that they can turn their life around. This is very powerful and indeed life changing.

Although I had run many marathons including back to back doubles, triples and even a quadruple, I had never even contemplated the thought of running 10 back to back. However, although it seemed a daunting prospect, it was a new and much bigger challenge, something that would not only take a great deal of physical stamina but also great mental strength. It was as exciting as it was daunting and there was something about it that made me decide I had to do it. Seven athletes made history in 2007 when they completed that inaugural challenge and we both still feel very proud and indeed privileged that we were allowed to be a part of it and involved ever since to see it go from strength to strength.

What do we particularly enjoy about being involved with Brathay’s flagship fundraising event? For us it’s the whole thing, it’s the challenge of the event,  knowing that its one of the toughest athletic events in the UK, the inspirational location, the friendliness and support of Brathay staff, the camaraderie and friendships that develop over those 10 days amongst the athletes, but most of all it’s the fact that we’re helping support and deliver Brathay’s mission by doing something that echoes the Brathay way, something that is not only challenging and inspirational but also life changing.

Although tough, its probably the course, which is one of the most scenic in the UK, that makes the event so enjoyable and memorable. Having now completed 40 laps around Windermere I never tire of the views and beautiful countryside. Of course the finish line which overlooks the head of Lake Windermere in the grounds of Brathay has to be one of the best (if not the best) finishes of any marathon in the world that I can think of.

We have many fond memories of our involvement with the Brathay 10 in 10, certainly too many to summarise. For us, it is and always will be a very special event where strangers come together the evening before day 1 and, in many cases, leave as lifetime friends the morning after day 10. We have hundreds if not thousands of photos from the many marathons we’ve attended over the last 30 years, however the only ones that adorn the walls at home are the ones from the Brathay 10 in 10 and Windermere Marathon, which says it all really.

When Teresa announced her intention to complete just one marathon, she knew which one it had to be, of course it was the Brathay Windermere Marathon. Having witnessed first hand what the 10 in 10 runners had put themselves through over the four years and having driven round the course on no less than 36 occasions, she was inspired to run this marathon as her first. In her words, she also wanted to see what her husband had put himself through over the years. When Teresa crossed the line she said, ‘I enjoyed every moment and am proud to finish my first marathon, but it’s also my last, never again!' I remember saying that 30 years ago but I somehow think Teresa means it! 

We’ll both be 50 in 2012 and it would be great to come back and celebrate. I’m not sure whether I have another 10 in 10 left in me, but it would certainly be great to complete the 50 laps, we’ll have to see. In the mean time we’d like to sincerely thank Brathay for all the fond memories we have and for giving us the opportunity to play our part in Brathay’s mission, it’s certainly been a fantastic journey which we’ll never forget.

I have been connected to Brathay for over 25 years and seen first-hand the power of their work with young people from all over the UK. Having worked for the charity from 1986 to 1991 I still have many good friends there. Brathay’s ethos and the commitment and expertise of its staff are second to none in the field of developmental education for young people and communities.

I've been running for more than 15 years and I’ve completed more than 50 marathons as well as a few ultras – the Himalayan 150-mile stage race being the highlight.

I am truly honoured to be running the Brathay 10 in 10, and I can’t think of a more wonderful running challenge. It involves beauty in the form of the magnificent backdrop of the Lake District. It will take both mental and physical strength and bring about great comradeship among those taking part. And of course it's all being done for a superb cause – helping Brathay’s work in supporting disadvantaged young people.

For years running has been my way of getting away from it all. I have my own business, which means I get plenty of opportunities to go on long runs! I have a few marathons under my belt, but in the last few years it’s been the multi-day events that I’ve found really enjoyable. Running the same route on 10 consecutive days... well that will be altogether a new level of challenge.

I was entered to run the 2011 10 in 10, but ‘things’ conspired against me, so I had to put it back a year. As well as the training and the actual event, I’m excited about raising funds and hopefully more awareness of Brathay, with its great mission and the opportunities it offers to young people. I know that both the fundraising and the running will be hard work, but I also know that the rewards will be great!

I’m originally from County Durham and I now live and work near Cockermouth, although it remains to be seen whether that gives me any kind of home advantage!

My partner Ruth and I have supported the 10 in 10 for the last few years, ever since some friends of ours ran it. Turning out to cheer the runners on over the first weekend has become an annual 'must-do' event for us. And seeing the experiences the runners go through at first hand is what has inspired me to stop dreaming and actually put my entry in. It will be, um, interesting to be on the receiving end of that support in 2012!

I'm a lucky boy. I had opportunities when I was young, and was able to take them. Now I'm comfortable in my life and my environment and my skin – and I’m in a position where I can run marathons for fun. Many young people aren't so lucky. For some, Brathay is there to help by changing outcomes for the better, in many cases completely turning lives around. I see this as my chance to help Brathay. I'm committed to spending every minute I can between now and May fundraising, to help ensure that Brathay can continue the work they do. For many young people, life can conspire to make every day feel like a marathon. So please support me, in supporting Brathay, to support them.

Of all the runners, I think I am the most local, because I live in Langdale. I have thought about doing the 10 in 10 for a few years, but until now I was daunted by the fundraising aspect of it. This year, however, after helping on a BG I thought ‘What the hell?’, and rushed to get an entry in.

In May 2010 I was diagnosed a condition requiring open heart surgery. In December, however, I was told that it had been a misdiagnosis. Of course that’s great news in one way, but I had to find a way to get fit again – and this is it!

How many marathons have I run to date? ZERO! However, I ran the Old Counties Tops Fell Race (also in the Lake District) six times in seven years, although for obvious reasons I didn’t do it last year. I have also completed a hundred-mile non-stop ultra-marathon in the Alps.

My name is Lee Boniface. I’m 49 years old, and have a lovely wife called Emma (Ems) and two teenage kids – Ellie and Zak.

I have run for as long as I can remember, starting with cross-country running at school. When I got into long-distance running it was mainly for the exercise and freedom. I also find running to be a great source of peace and reflection – the training miles are as much of a journey as the event itself.

Although I’m a long-time runner, I’ve never joined a club, and to date have only done two official marathons. But when I heard about the 10 in 10, I was instantly hooked on the idea. I think its appeal is running with such a small group of people. Sometimes big events can seem distracting.

The work that Brathay does for disadvantaged children is quite amazing. I have always felt blessed because I was raised in a positive environment. It has given me the values I live by, that I can pass them on to my children in turn. So for me, Brathay’s work in helping future generations of children benefits us all as a society. My goal is to raise £10,000 for Brathay.

Join Lee on his ice bath challenge!

I have two great kids, Abigail and Jacob, and a running widow, Claire. I am originally from Wales, but have lived in Essex for most of my life.

I took up running when I was told I couldn’t have a sports car for my mid-life crisis! I did the New York Marathon for my 40th birthday and, as I stumbled across the finish line, I swore blind I would never, ever, do another. Six months later, however, I had a brilliant day doing the London Marathon, and was totally hooked.

I have run the Comrades Ultra-Marathon twice, and loved the camaraderie and challenge. Running 56 miles with 20,000 people is an amazing experience, and just goes to show what the human body can do if the spirit and mind are willing. But equally amazing is running a small 20 person event in the rain! I did the Comrades because I wanted to push myself to do something I could fail at. And that’s where the 10 in 10 comes in. It’s certainly possible to fail, but I’m not worrying about that just yet!

As a parent and a school governor I was instantly drawn to the amazing work of the Brathay Trust – if you are going to run 262 miles you have to believe 100% in the cause. Brathay works to improve the lives of thousands of young people in the UK, with the simple vision of allowing them to fulfil their potential – something I can relate to as a runner!

The challenge of getting round the ‘pond’ 10 times will be both mental and physical, but every step will be worth it, to raise much-needed cash to enable Brathay to carry on the great work.

I'm 50 years old and I came to running quite late – about four years ago. I still feel like a beginner, but I do like a challenge.

It all started with the Race for Life in Leeds, and then I went on to train for my first marathon, The London Marathon, in 2007. I’ve since completed 20 more marathons to date, including 11 marathons this year in the name of training. 5 of those marathons have been ultra marathons, (over 26.2 miles) and I have also completed 2 marathons over 2 days in Liverpool and Grantham and even 3 marathons over 3 days on the Jurassic Coast.

My partner Kevin is also a runner – much, much faster than me – and we both run for the Kirkstall Harriers in Leeds. I joined two years ago, which was the best thing I ever did – it’s a great club and very supportive.

I was introduced to the 10 in 10 by a colleague who completed it in 2010. As far as motivation is concerned, I can think of no better cause than the Brathay Trust – a charity committed to helping improve and transform the lives of vulnerable young people by giving them positive experiences and life-enhancing skills. I will be running 262 miles over 10 days and every penny I raise will go towards giving these young people a chance in life.

I'm Sally and, having lived in Kirkby Lonsdale all my life, I'm relatively local to Brathay. My husband says I'm obsessed with running which I always deny, although I secretly know he’s probably right! Why else would anyone volunteer for 10 marathons in 10 days?

9 months and over 2000 training miles later I'm approaching the starting line. The winter miles have been tough and an injury in February cast serious doubts over whether I would make it but now I'm as ready as I'll ever be! I've now completed 14 marathons in the last year and have raised over £8000 for the Trust. I'm nervous but also excited about starting this challenge.

There's no doubt it's going to be physically demanding but I think the mental side will be even tougher. I 've got lots of support from friends and family and Evie (6) and Isla (3) are looking forward to cheering me on.

My name is Paul Dewar. I’m 46 and I live with Trudi, my wife, in Ulverston. It’s a wonderful part of the world, with the added benefit that I will be running practically on my doorstep.

Although I’m not a prolific marathon runner, I have enjoyed running since I used to represent the cross-country team at school (a very distant memory) and I have run several marathons, including London three times and many other races from 5k upwards. For some bizarre reason I still enjoy pounding the pavements on a daily basis.

I have followed the 10 in 10 for the last few years, and in 2011 I took part in the wonderfully organised Brathay Windermere Marathon. I have finally plucked up the courage to have a crack at this ultimate endurance event and raise some cash for the thousands of young vulnerable people who need Brathay's helps to fulfil their potential and improve their wellbeing.

In training for this event I have run over 2000 since last summer, worn out 4 pairs of trainers and countless pairs of socks!!

I'm 36 and hail from the Wirral, although I now live in Guildford with my wife Rena and our three kids – Holly, Kate and Tom.

As a youngster I enjoyed sports, but when I moved school at the age of 12 it seemed to put an end to that. Apart from infrequent five-a-side, by the time we had our twins in 2006, I was a good bit overweight and very unfit. Lots of spinning and body pump helped to sort that out, and I then got into running. My first race was an off-road 10K in April 2007.

I've since run 39 marathons and ultra-marathons, including the London to Brighton (56 miles) in August 2010, the North Downs Way 100 (100 miles) in August 2011 and four marathons in four days in February 2012. While I love trail running, I've done a lot more road running in the last 9 months in preparation for the 10 in 10. I suppose that's just as well, considering the amount of time I'll be spending pounding the roads around Windermere in May! I love a challenge, and this has got to be the biggest of them all!

My wife and I strive to do everything to encourage and support our kids to grow up into happy, confident young people. Sadly there are many young people around the country who have not had a good start in life. The work that Brathay does to support children and young people in making successful transitions into adulthood is invaluable, and it's great to know that all the money I raise will go directly towards it.

I’m Karen Hurrell, though I’m generally known as Kaz or Ultra Kazzaaaaah! I’m Essex born and bred, and run for Dagenham 88, which means I‘m following in Amanda Heslegrave’s footsteps, and aim to become the second D88 to do the 10 in 10!

I started running after my Dad's death in 1998 – primarily to lose weight and regain focus. The first week I went out with the group I hated it, but after the second week the bug had bitten! I ran my first marathon in 2001, and have since gone on to complete 70 marathons and ultras. I have a goal of reaching the hundred mark by my 50th birthday - something I'm on course to do with six months to spare.

I’ve been keenly following the 10 in 10 since its first year. I ran the 2011 Brathay Windermere Marathon, and provided support on days eight and nine of the 10 in 10, which just made me want to do it even more. In the ten months since being accepted for the challenge I've completed a further 25 marathons/ultras (including double, triple and quadruple weekends).

2011 was really tough, with my Mum's declining health and, sadly, her death at the beginning of May. Running really helped get me through the difficult days, and as a result 2011 was my highest mileage year with almost 2000 miles of running. Having run my first marathon in my Dad's memory, I will be running the 10 in 10 in Mum's memory.

I am lucky to have had a supportive and stable upbringing, but there are many children and young people who aren't that fortunate so, for them, the work that the Brathay Trust does is hugely important.

I’m 32, and I live in Kelty, Fife in Scotland. I am married to Laura and we have two gorgeous children – Megan and Jamie. I’m known as Fozzy to my mates!

I started running a couple of years ago to keep fit and keep the weight off, but like many people I have become addicted. I’m a member of a local running club called Pitreavie AAC. I like to run as many races as I can – usually 10ks and half-marathons, but now I’m concentrating on marathons. I’ve completed seventeen to date, but my plan is to run at least a hundred by the time I reach 40. I’m not a fast runner; taking part matters more to me!

I really enjoy getting other people out running, and several mates and family members have taken it up due to me pestering them! Laura will run her first marathon in Edinburgh on the 27th May this year. I want to inspire people to get fit and active and get running with me. I also want my kids to see me running here, there and everywhere, so hopefully they’ll want to do the same!

Once I’d seen the videos and YouTube clips of the 10 in 10 I was sold! When I saw all the emotions and struggles involved I wanted to test myself and push myself as hard as possible.

I want to raise as much money as I can for the Brathay Trust so I can help make changes in people's lives for the better.

My name is David Bayley, but only my mother and my boss ever use my real name – and then only when I'm in trouble! Everyone just calls me Foxy.

I’m originally from South Staffordshire and support the Wolves. I now live in Milton Keynes and run for MK Lakeside Runners. I began running by accident, when I entered the New York Marathon in 2005 as part of a birthday trip to the Big Apple. I was instantly hooked and have subsequently run a further 121 marathons (& 10 Ultra marathons) in 19 Countries, 9 Capital Cities & 8 US States – Races have included Paris, Florence, Amsterdam and Las Vegas. In 2010 I ran the 56-mile Comrades Ultra-Marathon in South Africa & in April 2012 I completed all 5 of the World Marathon Majors (New York, London,Berlin, Chicago & finally Boston).

I joined the hundred-marathon club in September 2010. Almost A quarter of my marathons have been run around the beautiful Lake Windermere, having completed 10 in 10s in 2009, 2010 and 2011. I'm looking forward to joining the very exclusive Windermere thousand-mile club on day nine of the 2012 event & day 7 will hopefully mark my 100th Road marathon.

In my spare time, and to aid my fundraising, I run Enigma Running, offering marathons in Bucks,Beds & Staffs : www.enigmarunning.co.uk

My name is Tinu, but people in the running community generally refer to me as Toks. I live in London with my family and have three children (Venus, Alex and Samuel). They keep me pretty busy.

Running gives me a buzz – it’s how I get my energy back. I loved running as a child, but started running seriously after losing a dear friend to cancer. From a humble 5k event in July 2005 to raise money for Cancer Research UK, I have gone on to complete 23 races – a mixture of half-marathons, marathons and ultra-marathons. I love to push myself to the limit and challenge myself more each time.

I signed up for the 10 in 10 because I was inspired by what the 13 runners did in May 2011, and I wanted to join these extraordinary people in pushing myself to the ultimate challenge.

I am extremely grateful and moved by the support of people from the online and offline communities with their generous donations to the Brathay Trust and supporting me through this challenging year with all the training I have had to get done. I have not done any official race since training for this challenge but I have done b2b marathon distances (new year’s eve and new year’s day) and 3 marathons in 3 days (during Easter bank holidays), so 5 marathons unofficially on my own to get myself mentally fit to be able to compete in the event.

Combining the challenge of long-distance running with raising money for causes close to my heart makes it extremely special. I believe that Brathay is a very worthy cause, because it supports young people and gives them the tools of self-empowerment, so they gain a sense of direction and become the best they can be. I am also motivated to be a good role model for my children.

This event will be in my friend’s memory, as she was the reason I started this journey. I’ll also be running in memory of my Mum, who died 17 years ago, and my Dad, who died three years ago. Oh, and I’m celebrating a big birthday this year.

I started running in 2009 at the age of 43. I was surprised to discover that it brings me a unique combination of challenge, discipline, and perspective. After breaking two hours in my first half-marathon, I set myself the goal of finishing a full marathon in less than four hours. It took me over a year to accomplish. During training I ran almost 1,500 miles and burned off 20lbs of unnecessary body mass. Curiously, within minutes of crossing that finish line, one of my first thoughts was ‘Where do I go from here?’ - and Brathay 10in10 was the obvious answer when I stumbled across the event during May 2011.

Now, in the course of training for this extraordinary challenge, I have come to learn that running is far more than just a physical workout. It is also the best way to learn about one’s own strengths, weaknesses and potential. We have unimagined resources, if only we can learn how to tap into them. It has also taught me that it is OK to be afraid, because without fear there is no courage.

I consider myself extremely fortunate to have an education, a job, self-esteem, and the opportunity to make choices about my life. Such things are out of reach for many young people – even in so-called developed countries. I believe that when we have these privileges, it is our responsibility to share them whenever possible. An event like Brathay 10in10 is an opportunity to make a strong gesture of solidarity towards those who are in dire need.

As I undertake my daunting 262-mile journey round Lake Windermere, I ask you to participate by contributing whatever you can towards my fundraising goal of £5,000. Every pound, penny or dollar that I raise will go to support the admirable work of Brathay Trust.

You can help too by telling your friends about this amazing journey. Follow my progress at www.robertdallison.com, or sign up for my email newsletter at www.tinyletter.com/robruns10in10.

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement!

I am an ex-smoker, drinker and couch potato from Cornwall who turned it around.

After debuting in the London Marathon in 2003, I spent several years as a fancy-dress funrunner (I’ve now retired from the costumed capers!) which ultimately led to completing London 2006 as Mr Happy. That inspired me to write a book, Because I Think I Can, and any donation over £10 on my justgiving page comes with a personalised signed copy – while stocks last!

I've done 17 marathons so far. During the 2011 Brathay Windermere Marathon I met some of the runners and organisers, and I was impressed with the sheer heart and soul that the Brathay Team, including the unsung heroes, put into the whole event. In 2011 I followed the 10in10ers' progress with admiration, and dreamt about being fit for such an event. While meeting last year's contestants before their ninth start line, I felt incredibly motivated by their tenacity, enthusiasm and endurance. I’m humbled and very proud to be accepted for 2012 event, so I've been training rigorously (without the costumes!) ever since my selection.

Brathay Trust is all about some of the finest people on God's green earth organising educational and recreational trips for some of the most disadvantaged kids in the country. They learn all about love, respect, sharing and acceptance, so that they can acquire a whole new view on life – something which directly affects each and every one of us.

Update, update, update, update, update..................................

I wrote all of the above in August 2011 not long after getting accepted to the 2012 Brathay 10in10!!

Here's how it reads in May 2012.............

Well, it's been the most emotional journey that I have ever volunteered myself for; and I say that only because life's tragedies and other episodes are usually imposed upon you without consultation - I actually willingly signed up for this ! If only I knew back then.......

My fundraising has gone fairly well although I am yet to reach my £2500 target, mind you this was never going to be a short-term project.

Since receiving THAT letter from Aly Knowles I have slogged through the most awful weather conditions (and a few sunny weekends) and have accumulated another 18 Full Marathon Medals. This is not about Personal Bests, however, my previous PB of 4:36:15 from Marathon No8 in 2009 was smashed at Foxy's Lake Caldecotte in February 2012 in Marathon No28 with a very respectable 4:25:24.

I have amassed some personal bests along the way which includes finishing my first Ultra Marathon and completing three 'marathon double' weekends, but the greatest PB's I have earned were the events that happened along the way and the most incredible people that I met during my journey. To start with, I was taken under the wing of The Brathay Family and I have learned that a bunch of old men trying to get around a Lake has now become a Legacy. I can only dream of the 10th Finish Line right now, but as dreams go; that's a good'un!

My running number will be No6 in 2012, the only number I wanted. Why ? Because Liz Tunna was No6 in 2011 and, after seeing her limp around Lake Windermere on the last few days, she inspired me to believe that it was actually possible for me to enrol myself for such an arduous task.

The Brathay 10in10 was not my idea; I could never fathom the surreality (is that a word?) or the Pythonesque ridiculousness of wanting to do the UK's most challenging Road Marathon 10 times; but I am going to give it my best shot and hopefully uphold the Brathay Legacy.

The Brathay Bootcamp in January taught me several things but what I remember most is not running the incredibly tough 26.2 miles again in the freezing conditions. What I remember most is seeing for myself where your money is getting spent.

These youngsters do not want a handout; they need a hand-up! I am taking on the most unbelievable challenge that I could ever imagine and I cannot measure how special the work that goes on at Brathay Hall is.

God Bless.

Hi I’m Jim – a Scots Italian living in Yorkshire (which probably accounts for me talking fluent rubbish!) After I ran my first marathon (Leeds 1982), I said never again. My children were born in 1984 and 1989, so I was distracted for a few years. When I eventually ran my next marathon, in 1996, I missed a ‘sub four’ (a time of under four hours) by three minutes 15 seconds. That October I ran the Manchester Marathon, and came in 12 seconds over the four-hour mark. By that time I was hooked on the idea of getting a sub four… and the rest, as they say, is history.

I’ve now completed 76 marathon-distance (or above) events – including London, New York, Paris, Edinburgh, Dublin and others. I have completed the London Ultra-Marathon 3 times, the Grantham Back-to-Back ultra 3 times, and the Jurassic Coastal Challenge (3 marathons in 3 days), but had to pull out this year on day 2 due to a stomach bug.

I've also completed the Canadian Ironman Triathlon twice, 2010, & 2011. I did the Marathon des Sable Marathon, 6 days & 156 miles across the Sahara desert, last year. But the big challenge is the 10in10.

I missed the first Windermere Marathon in 2007, but did it in 2008. I was completely bowled over by Brathay – the place, the people, and the great work they do with young people. I had to come back and raise more much-needed funds. So I did it again in 2009, and did the 10 in 10 in 2010. Having done it once, will it be easier to do a second time? No – because I know what I'm in for!

I am Adrian Shandley from Southport; I started running 10 years ago when I found myself to be highly stressed, slightly overweight Managing Director who was eating badly and not exercising at all. I sat at home one Sunday morning watching the London Marathon and decided that I would have a go, it’s been downhill ever since!

Running is highly contagious, of that there is no doubt; I have now run 16 marathons and so many other races that I have lost count. I am married to Gillian who also runs marathons; we have 3 children, Jordan, Talitha and Kayla, all of whom are also keen runners. In my spare time, apart from running, i am a keen supporter of Southport Football Club! (somebody has to be!!)

I first became involved with the Brathay charity 4 years ago when I ran the Brathay Marathon, I ran it again two years later and the more I got involved with the charity, the more I understand about the valuable work that they do.

I think if I said I was “looking forward” to the 10 in 10, I would be taken away by the men in white coats, but the training has gone well and I have actually reached my target fitness.

I am now a big part of the local running scene, a member of Southport Waterloo Athletic Club, I have taken part in many races and now even organise a few races each year, including the Mad Dog 10K for Round Table. But it only hit home to me the other night, the enormity of what I have committed to, when I received an email from one of the Southport Waterloo Athletic Club members, asking me to write a short piece about the 10 in 10 because nobody in the club had been “crazy enough” to do anything similar previously!

Please do follow my updates as I attempt the 10 in 10, and if you can offer any support, I really would be most appreciative.