My name is Ben and I grew up in Northampton, and this September I'm running my first half marathon for charity, after a few years as a keen amateur runner finally deciding to put that to some proper use.

Baby Basics Northampton support local families who need a hand with the basics for a new baby. Thoughtful starter packs, the kind of thing that makes a real difference in those first few months. It's a genuinely good cause, quietly getting on with making sure babies in this county get the best possible start, whatever the circumstances at home.

My Mum supports Baby Basics as a trustee, I know this town well, and I know charities like this thrive when local people choose to get behind them. That's reason enough for me.

Training's going well, and 13.1 miles is a proper new challenge that I haven't done in a while, one I'm genuinely looking forward to. There's something exciting about pushing past what you thought you were capable of, especially when it's for something bigger than a personal best.

Any amount you can give makes a real difference to a family here in Northamptonshire, and I'd really appreciate any support.