AS the running enthusiasts among you remember, last spring I pounded the streets of London to achieve one of my lifetime's ambitions - running my first-ever marathon.

Getting round those 26.2 miles was one of the hardest things I've ever done. For me, it was up there with winning an Olympic Silver Medal.

So, if you want to be part of the 30,000 strong field realising their ambitions on April 22, sign up now for the 2001 Flora London Marathon.

To get your place you'll have to be quick off the mark. The London Marathon ballot for places closes on Friday, October 20. So contact Mencap today on 0845 777 779 for more information.

ROGER BLACK MBE.