I CANNOT quite believe it is that time of the year again – time for me to lace up my trainers and run the London Marathon.

This race will be my sixth marathon and yet, that 26.2 mile course never seems to get any easier.

This year I am running to raise money for two very deserving charities, Heads Together and the Vale of Glamorgan branch of Age Connects, including the Friends and Neighbours group.

In the run up to the marathon, so many of my constituents have emailed me or even stopped me in the street to tell me how these charities have touched their lives or that of a loved one.

It is these stories that inspire me to keep training, to keep fundraising, and will ultimately keep me motivated to get over that finish line on Sunday.

Heads Together brings together a number of mental health charities to raise awareness of mental health issues and provide help for those suffering with mental health challenges.

The charity works to help people find the help they need and to remove the stigma attached to these issues.

You will have seen the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge along with Prince Harry speaking this week about losing the “stiff upper lip” concerning emotions and feelings.

The work of the Royal Family to work with Heads Together to remove the stigma surrounding mental health has been exemplary, and I sincerely hope that the money raised by my marathon efforts, will help this crucial work to continue.

The local branch of Age Connects is behind the Senior Health Cafe on Holton Road and the popular Friends and Neighbours group.

Their work brings older people together in the community for day trips, useful classes and regular social events.

They combat loneliness and ensure that older people can continue to enjoy community life in Barry.

Only last week I attended their Easter Party and had a brilliant afternoon watching and judging the bonnet parade, eating a delicious lunch, but most of all, listening to the laughter booming from the hall.

It is clear to see how much joy the group brings to the elderly members of our community.

I have been overwhelmed by the support and best wishes that I have received ahead of the marathon.

While I am starting to get nervous with only a few days to go, it is incredibly exciting to know that the money raised will go towards helping Heads Together and Age Connects VOG to provide their vital support systems, when they are needed.

If anyone would like to contribute, there is still time.

Donations can be made on my fundraising web page uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlunCairns

Every donation is gratefully received.