YES, it is true. I am not sure how many people will believe me, but yesterday I completed the Butterwick 5km fun run in 35 minutes.

And I have the certificate and aching joints to prove it.

Three months ago, I reluctantly agreed to take up the challenge to experience a rigorous (well... kind of) training programme and also raise much-needed funds for the hospice.

Renowned for my love of the sofa, chocolate, wine and addiction to soap operas, I knew that getting me in a pair of running shoes was going to be a tough challenge for anyone.

But help was at hand from race director Phil Barker.

His words of wisdom worked, and for someone who used to get out of breath running up the stairs, I have amazed myself by not only completing the run, but actually completing it in a time to be proud of.

I am living proof that anyone - no matter what their fitness level - can train and complete the challenge with success.

Organisers of the run were disappointed with the turnout this year. Hopefully next year, more people will take up the challenge.

If anyone said to me last year that I would complete a 5km run, I would have laughed. I am one of those people who always claimed to be allergic to exercise.

But if I can do it, anyone can.

And, not only is running a great form of exercise, I have managed to raise more than £100 for the hospice. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.