OBESITY, heart disease and stroke – these are the ominous and fateful symptoms of a sedentary, slothful, goggle-box and computer-screen lifestyle.

That’s the debit side. On the credit side, huge numbers of us have seen the light and find a way to keep fit by working in gardens and allotments, visiting a gym regularly or going for a run.

Many Huddersfield people will be joining the nation in a celebration not just of fitness, but of our national generosity this weekend.

Running the London Marathon is an expression of our willingness to suffer, and ultimately triumph, over extreme physical testing.

In the back of every runner’s mind tomorrow will be the fact that from the pain there also comes gain. The coffers of charities all over Britain will be heavier thanks to runners’ efforts.

Runners, may your pains be temporary.