My son Andy has managed to get a place in the London Marathon this year. The London Marathon is something special as it involves running on the roads we know going past where I used to live and work and also right past my 84 year old Dads house ( so he will be able to watch and see his grandson in the race).
It will be Andys first marathon though he has done a half marathon in training.
In common with most competitors he will be trying to raise something for charity at the same time and his chosen charity is his local Air Training Squadron 1227 Sidcup. He joined them 15 years ago at the age of 13 and with their help and encouragment has flown training planes, gliders, had flights in a helicopter and a Hercules. They were also instrumental in him getting a gold D of E award. They are a great organisation for youngsters giving them confidence and and instilling the idea of discipline ( much needed these days) and team working.
He learnt so much in his time there that he became a civilian Instructor and has now qualified as a Staff Sargent so he can pass his knowledge on to the current youngsters. Due to budget cuts over the years they need funds to be able to provide some of the facilities that Andy enjoyed.
So if your feeling generous you can sponsor him at http://www.justgiving.com/andy-collier. Dont forget the Gift Aid so you can get something out of Gordon Brown for once.
