The race, on 22 April, will be Nick’s sixth London Marathon and the previous five races have raised well over £40,000 for Crisis.

Nick said; “It would be great to add to that total so that Crisis can carry on their excellent work for people who need to find a home – and rediscover hope. I would be really grateful if you are able to sponsor me this time.”

He added; “As all housing people are being urged to ‘sweat their assets’, that seemed to be an appropriate title for this year’s appeal. For those who like to offer sponsorship linked to a challenge, you may want to know that my best time is 3hrs 53mins (2004), my slowest is 4hrs 16mins (2003) and last year was 3hrs 58mins.

Paying is easy. There is a web page to visit www.justgiving.com/nickabbey2 or cheques made payable to either “Nick Abbey-Marathon” or to Crisis can be sent to Nick at Hereward Housing, St Mary’s Lodge, St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4EY.