This is a cryptic crossword. Apologies to the purists for taking liberties with the grid and (in a couple of instances) clueing conventions - this was to retain my sanity. The puzzle began to take shape on 26 April, the date of the cancelled London Marathon and its virtual fundraising replacement the 2.6 Challenge. Unable as I was even to move 2.6 metres, I set about writing 26 crossword clues; it is largely by luck that the last clue is 26 across... Some of the clues were inspired by Epic Continent by Nicholas Jubber, which I finished in the same hospital bed - well worth a read.  Do please have a go, and please give me feedback on how you've found it. More may follow... If you'd like a printable pdf click on the PDF link at the bottom of the page.  I will send a cash prize to the solver of the first complete solution drawn out of a hat - deadline for submissions 12 noon 26 June.

All I ask in return is that you make a donation to Scottish Autism via my JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/simonahunt

In the ongoing Covid-19 situation, we are experiencing a significant increase in very distressed and vulnerable individuals and families reaching out for our help, at the same time as our traditional fundraising routes to meet these needs have largely dried up. Your contribution could help make a big difference, thank you.