Ruby Appeal

Long Clawson man Peter Tinsley is a marathon addict. And now he's using his addiction to help raise funds for BBC Radio Leicester's Ruby Rainbow Appeal.

Later in the month he is running the Sydney Marathon for the station's 40th anniversary appeal.

Peter imparted good advice to our news editor Lucy Collins and journalist Allen Cook who are doing the Great North Run for the appeal.

Both are marathon virgins and Lucy was eager to hear what Peter, who has run 49 marathons, had to say.

His advice included:

• Train regularly before the big day
• Eat at least two and a quarter hours before the race
• Take drink with you
• Take your last drink 15 minutes before the start
• On your first attempt guard against getting carried away and running too quickly
• Run at a pace at which you feel comfortable

Stilton for Success

But Peter had another bit of wisdom for our aspiring half marathoneers: drink cheese smoothies for energy and health!

These can be made using either white or blue Stilton. The other ingredients are milk, mango puree and vanilla ice cream.

Lucy was dubious as she sipped the concoction but was won over by the unexpected mixture of flavours.

Enjoy!

Peter says that as well as giving you much needed energy the drink also provides vital calcium and protein.

He also maintains that you should enjoy the experience of marathon running, it should not be a chore or a trial

We are sure that Lucy and Alan will take his words to heart as they prepare for the Great North Run, which is on Sunday 30 September.