Run, row, bike or eat cake. It's the getting involved that counts.

Did you watch the London marathon last weekend and think “hmm, I might fancy doing that”? If so, hats off to you – running a marathon is no easy feat. Dedication to your training schedule and personal commitment to the hours of training needed is just the start but people who have done one, say the sense of achievement at the end, is worth all the training. Many choose to run for a charity that’s close to their heart as this helps with the motivation and keeps them on track when all they want to do is give up and put their tired feet up. At Not Another bunch of Flowers HQ, we’re all keen supporters of our favourite charities – but all of us agree that running a marathon isn’t for everyone!

If you fancy doing something yourself, here’s our top 5 events/things to do for a charity, that are happening around the UK this year:

1. With over 150 5Km events this year there is sure to be one near you. Run, jog, walk or skip it's a great way to show your support. Great for all ages and physical fitness this is an achievable distance for everyone. These events have great atmospheres and are an ideal event to get involved in as a team with work colleagues or friends. In our experience, the Race for Life ones are well organised and good fun: www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org/types-of-event/5k-events/index.html

2. Not really a runner? The legendary London to Brighton bike ride is great for people who want to do it on two wheels! This 54-mile route can be done at your own pace, taking as many breaks and rests as you wish along the way. Starting in busy streets of London and onto the beautiful Surrey and Sussex countryside before finishing on Brighton beach. If you need some extra encouragement, the race goes right past NABOF’s front door, so we’ll be here cheering you on! For more information:  The British Heart Foundation London to Brighton Bike Ride.

3. The Great River Rowing Boat Challenge is a real team event. The great news is that you don’t need to have rowed before and all fitness levels are welcome. An ideal and unique opportunity to see London from a different view, from the water. Monies raised go to The Ahoy Centre which provides opportunities for disadvantage and at-risk youths as well as opportunities for disable people to join in activities on an equal level.

4. Sticking with the water theme – open water swimming has become very popular in recent years. Dorney Lake is a purpose built, clear and calm open water lake ideal for first timers (750m swim) or for those who wish to take on a greater challenge (10km). Join Eton Swim at this Olympic Rowing and Canoeing venue and feel as if you are part of an Olympic team. Set in stunning surroundings this makes a great spectators event too. The official charity for this event is Sue Ryder who provide incredible hospice and neurological care for people facing a frightening and life-changing diagnosis. 

5. Let’s face it not all of us are naturally sporty so inviting friends and family around for a cuppa and a piece of cake whilst doing something worthwhile is also a winner in our books. The annual Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning takes place on 30th September this year. So far this national event has raised over £138 million for the charity. Amazing and so easy to get organised. There is even a pack to help.

If taking part in an event really isn’t for you – you could try something completely different, like hair donation. If you are thinking of having an extreme hair cut anytime soon, did you know you could donate your hair? There are a number of charities who accept hair donations in order to make wigs for those who have lost their hair through illness or treatment. One such organisation is The Little Princess Trust who provide wigs for children. Take a look at their website to see how it is done.

Whatever you decide to do, big or small, supporting a charity makes an amazing difference to other people’s lives and we wish you a big NABOF GOOD LUCK with whatever you decide to do to help raise vital funds for your chosen charity.