Good luck chief
Just a couple of mine to add…
Join a running club there are plenty out there of all abilities and it gives you a bit of motivation and company for those dark nights when it’s pissing it down and the temptation is to stay in.
Aside from that work out a route you know the distance of and work your way up on distance and pace. I tend to run a 1.5 or 3 mile circuit and vary the laps each night starting on a one lap Monday (post hangover) and a quick sprint once round on a Friday. Record the times so you can see your progress and it’ll give you something to race against when you’re on your own.
Half marathon is definitely a good build up.
Cheers Dazzza
I've entered the Great North Run; i will hear next week if i've got into that. If not; i am definately going to do at least one half marathon beforehand for practise/experience etc.