RUNNING a marathon doesn’t get any easier.

I ran my fifth London Marathon last Sunday, and although it was the most enjoyable yet – it was also the most exhausting.

In the weeks before, I had been troubled by a minor injury niggle combined with an extraordinarily busy period in Westminster that resulted in a disrupted training schedule. Despite that I was delighted, if a little surprised, to complete the 26 mile course around the landmarks of London in three hours 28 minutes, a personal best time.

To anyone in Barry and the Vale thinking about running the London Marathon, I can only say one thing – just do it. It is something you will never forget, and provides a great platform to raise money for charity or a good cause.

I am very pleased with how my fundraising is going so far for two absolutely fantastic charities. Breast Cancer Now and The Brain Tumour Charity are nationally recognised charities but undertake so many local initiatives on the ground in Barry and the Vale.

I thought long and hard about which good causes to support, and after having discussed with local charity champions, I was delighted to have had the opportunity to work with both charities that help those in need and champion research into disease.

I have been humbled by the support shown by the local community – they have supported in a number of ways by hosting coffee mornings and events, and through generous donations. This is what is so magical about the London Marathon, it provides a focus once a year for good causes that make a real difference to the lives of people across our towns and villages.

The question has already been asked about next year. At the time of writing my legs are saying no to 2017, but I know that when the time comes around next year I will have the opportunity to run again for two fantastic charities and I will be pounding the pavements of the Vale once more.

Finally, I would like to thank all the local residents that have contributed to my marathon fund. The page is still open for donations and can be found at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlunCairnsMP