In the weeks leading up to your birthday, what sort of things do you ask friends and family for?

Neha Rawat and her family avoid the usual requests and instead ask for money – but not for themselves.

Instead, she and her husband Puneet Sharma use the occasion to raise funds for good causes.

The 35-year-old is taking part in the NSPCC 60 Minute Challenge on Sunday, October 4, running around the Lee Valley VeloPark to support the children’s charity.

The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park event, which is backed by the Post, features two time slots to allow participants of all abilities to take part.

Neha, from Ilford, said: “It’s my husband’s birthday on October 3 and our son’s on October 10.

“Rather than asking for gifts, we usually participate in a charity event and ask for friends and family to donate.”

Puneet, an accident and emergency doctor, will be joining Neha in running as far as possible within an hour.

The first “run harder” cycle begins at 10am and is aimed at those who want to go as fast as possible for the full hour, while the family-friendly “run together” slot caters for those who want to walk or jog part or all of the hour.

Both runs will take place around the same specially-created one mile circuit, with particpants tasked with completing as many laps as possible.

NSPCC head of participation events, Victoria Kellaway, said: “Most mass participation events are based around completing a set distance, whether it be 5k, 10k or even a marathon, but this event breaks the mould and asks how far will you go, rather than what time will you do.

“We’re very excited about this event and are very grateful to people like Neha for getting involved. This event isn’t about who is the best, it’s about being the best you can be.”

Entry into the event costs £20 per adult, £70 for a team of four people, and £5 for anyone under 18.

All participants get a free running vest, a training plan, distance chip technology, and a well-deserved medal at the end. All adults are asked to pledge to raise £150.

The money raised through the 60 Minute Challenge will be used to support the NSPCC’s work with children and families in the battle to prevent abuse and help those who have suffered to rebuild their lives.