My name is Andrew Mitchell. I am 38 years old and a school teacher at a secondary school. Five years ago I lost my brother, Paul, to a brain tumour. He was diagnosed in July 2001 and died 18 months later in January 2003. Paul was a man of integrity and a caring and loving brother. Impressed by his sense of fairness and his determination to do his best in all areas of his life and in his faith, all my life I looked up to him and continue to aspire to add his qualities into my life. He was my Best Man – the best man I have ever known.

During his illness, his wife Tina started a charity called Hammer Out. It was created to help and support both sufferers of brain tumours and their carers, family and friends. It is this charity that has given me the opportunity to do something which my brother would be proud of and in some way say thank you to him for all he did for me. I also want to support my sister-in-law and all the wonderful work she has done to create a charity that has grown beyond all our expectations. I have no doubt that it will continue to grow and support people who are affected by such a cruel disease.

For this reason I am running the Flora London Marathon 2008, having been given a silver bond place by the charity. I hope you will support this worthwhile and effective charity by sponsoring me.

Sponsor me online at www.justgiving.com/marathonmitchell

Please help me raise as much money as possible for this charity which is extremely close to my heart.

THANK YOU!