This is it: marathon running’s Holy Grail. The original course, run from the ancient city of Marathon to the Panathinaco Stadium in Athens.

The event has ancient roots, of course, from the time when a Greek foot soldier gave news – with his dying breath – that the battle of Marathon had been won agains the Persians, having legged it for 26–plus miles in nowt but a pair of sandles and a daft skirt. Poor lad.

Our merry band of volunteers will suffer no such indignities, thanks to the professionalism of modern marathon running. Water stops everywhere, toilets a–plenty (Paula Radcliffe take note) and a full support team of Claire House volunteers to mop their fevered brows.

Still, it’ll be tough, and it demands real fitness and commitment from those participating. They deserve a medal (which they get at the end) and several pints (which they’ll also get, later that night, together with the obligatory kebab).

So, if you're up for it get in touch: some very deserving and needy children will benefit from your efforts.