Halesowen fun run on way to help good causes

Halesowen will host its first road fun run next month in what organisers hope will boost the town and bring in much needed cash for good causes.

The charity 5k run will take place on September 16.

Organisers from Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club have appealed for residents and businesses to back the event.

Club members have supported a vast array of regional and national charities over the years and officials say cash generated will all go to good causes.

Rotarian and organiser Alan Bowler today said the excitement was building as final preparations are put in place. "We believe the fun run can be very positive not only for Halesowen but the surrounding areas," he said.

"Times are tough for people at the moment but we think this can give the town, charities and everyone a boost."

People can sign up by filling out an application form at www.halesowenrotaryfunrun.org where there are also details for business sponsorship.

The event starts at 9.30am and will take joggers around town centre streets which will be specially marshalled on the day.

Roads will remain open on the day, to minimise disruption to trade, but lane closures will be in place to ensure safety.

The route will start and finish in Somers Square. It will take runners out into Rumbow before going along the A458 New Road and Whitehall Road. People will then head down the A459 Bromsgrove Road and Queensway before heading back down Hagley Road and High Street and through Somers Square and round for a second lap of the course.

Mr Bowler says he hopes townsfolk will also support the event by turning out to cheer on the joggers as they pass by.

An entry fee of £8 for adults aged over 16, £4 for children and £15 for a family of four (two adults, two children) has been put in place.

A number of well-known businesses in the area including Swedish steel firm Sandvik and car dealer Halesowen Audi have backed the event.