If someone had asked me to attempt to run 13.1 miles 18 months ago, I would've burst into hysterical laughter. However, after starting to go jogging a few times a week and gradually feeling fitter, the idea grew more appealing.

Throw in the chance to raise money for charity, and the promised sense of achievement, and I was sold. I applied for a place through Alzheimer's Society in February and set about trying to reach a suitable level of fitness.

On race day, I jogged as much of the route as I could, completing it in three hours and two minutes (including an eight minute queue for a toilet stop!).

As always seems to be the case, the day was sunny - hot for the runners, but great for the spectators. The crowds are brilliantly enthusiastic, especially the folks on the sea front at South Shields. It's a good idea to ask for the iron-on letters for your running top; hearing your name shouted is a real boost.

At the finish, I vowed once was enough, but I will keep up the running, and by the time I've forgotten about the up-hill slogs and the post-race aches and pains, I might want to give it another go.

The best part - apart from crossing the finish line - has to be the fundraising.

Alzheimer's Society carries out research into dementia and cares for those who suffer from all forms of the condition, as well as supporting partners and families. There are currently 700,000 people with dementia in the UK, and that figure is expected to soar to 1.7 million by 2050. However, research in the field is underfunded, so every donation, no matter how small, is much appreciated.