THE top fundraising charity from this year's Black Country Run in Halesowen has been named.

A team of 45 runners and walkers stepped out in support of Sunfield School, Clent, raised a huge £5,979.75 in sponsorship.

That was enough to take top spot in a competition between the charities to raise the most cash.

Sunfield has now been recognised for its efforts with a charity cup and a cheque for £250 by Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club, which organises the event.

Rotarian Alan Bowler said: “The runners and walkers from Sunfield should be very proud of themselves for a great effort and a huge amount of money raised.

"The Black Country Run is a great platform for charities to raise money for themselves. Many charities benefited from this year’s run, and we are always looking for more.”

Team Sunfield fielded runners in both the 5k fun run and 10k road race, which took place on Sunday, September 21 in Halesowen town centre. They included students, staff, volunteers, community and local business supporters.

Sunfield will use the sponsorship boost to buy equipment to enhance the quality of life and education for its residents. That will include sports equipment, musical instruments, computer equipment and sensory resources.

Georgina Forrest, Sunfield’s partnership development manager, said: “We are delighted to now be able to look at purchasing new sensory resources, an interactive I board computer and items for our food technology kitchen all in support of our students.

"A thank you goes out to Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club."

She added: "To be awarded with the charity cup as the team that raised the most sponsorship is the icing on the cake, it’s also a wonderful acknowledgment for our three students that took part in the event.”

Next year’s Black Country Run will be held on Sunday, July 5, to coincide with the Black Country Day celebrations.