"I know the money raised is going towards a great cause"

I think it's the belief that 'everyone has the right to stay safe' that's inspired me to run my first ever London Marathon. It's been on my bucket list for a while!
 

I turned 40 last year and felt that this might be a good way to keep on top of my recently improved fitness levels. In the run-up to Christmas, I took part in a sponsored diet at work to raise funds for breast cancer research, and managed to lose six stone as a result. I wanted to continue improving my fitness in the New Year and I started training for the London Marathon in January after securing my place.
 

My family and friends think I’m bonkers, but they are very supportive and on the day, they’ll be there to cheer me on.
 

I chose to run for Crimestoppers as previously, when I was Director of Intelligence at Kent and Essex Police, we worked very closely with the charity when dealing with modern slavery, gangs, homicides and serious crime inquiries. I know the money raised will be going towards a great cause.
 

Last year, I took part in a mud 5k obstacle race and a 10k Spartan race, where I tackled 33 obstacles. And a couple of weeks ago, I completed the Brentwood half marathon, which was great practice for running the full 26.2 miles come Sunday 28 April. 

I'm hoping to complete the marathon in around four hours 30 minutes, but I admit the training has been hard-going at times. Whatever time I complete the race in will actually be great, it'll be about the atmosphere there, crossing the line and raising funds for Crimestoppers.

 

Time's been the biggest sacrifice during my training. It does impact on me seeing my family. On some days I’ve been getting up at 4am which has also been tough. As part of my training, I sometimes run alongside my 14-year-old daughter when she's riding her horse, which is a great new way of spending time together!
 

Fundraising's been going really well. I've had so much welcome support from corporate sponsors, along with family and friends, who've all been so generous.

Even my daughter has been getting in on the act by baking to raise funds!
 

You can support Stuart on his Virgin Money fundraising page.