FANCY dress-donning fun runners are being encouraged to join in the Black Country’s biggest outdoor event which takes place in Halesowen this weekend.

Thousands of runners are expected to take part in the sixth annual Black Country run through the streets of the town on July 2.

And race organiser Alan Bowler, who is also from Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club, urged families and charity fundraisers to sign up and enjoy the fun.

This year the organisers have introduced a new 5km Elite race. This race is specifically for runners that can complete 5km within 30 minutes and will start at 9am, followed by the 10km race starting at 9.45am and the Family Fun Run starting at 11.30am.

Mr Bowler said: “We are encouraging more fun runners and people who will wear fancy dress to take part this year.

“We have runners of all abilities taking part. But if anyone fancies dressing up or running for their own charitable causes then they would be most welcome.

“Alternatively, they can pay money they raise into the Rotary fund that will be distributed to a number of good causes.

“We will even have dhol drummers and dancers greeting people at the start and finish so there will be a lot of fun and it is a great event for families to take part in.”

A series of road closures will be implemented while the event is taking place.

Since the event was started in 2012 by the Rotary Club of Halesowen and Rowley Regis, more than £100,000 has been raised for Black Country and national charities.

Among those being supported by runners this year include Halas Homes, Sunfield and Acorns Children’s Hospice.

To enter the event, people can register at www.theblackcountryrun.com or sign up at the event.