BUSINESSES across the Black Country are being encouraged to sign up to the region’s annual road run in Halesowen this July.

Black Country Chamber of Commerce are supporting the event – co-ordinated by Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club – which is this year launching a new ‘corporate challenge’.

Local businesses can participate in either a 10k run or a fun run, serving as a great way to get colleagues together as a team building exercise or to promote fitness in the workplace, while having fun supporting the local community.

Corin Crane, chamber of commerce chief executive, said: “We're very excited to be partnering with The Black Country Road Run and Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary, and we look forward to supporting the event.

“We encourage all of our members and the local business community to get involved in this popular road race, and help to raise money and awareness for your chosen charities.”

The 2018 Black Country Road Run, which will take place on Sunday, July 1, is open to all abilities and businesses can register online at www.theblackcountryrun.com/corporate-challenge.

Alan Bowler, race organiser, said: “The Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club is very pleased to be partnering with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce this year.

“This will be the seventh year for The Black Country Run and for the first time we are holding the new corporate challenge.

“We are challenging Black Country businesses to enter teams of five runners into either the 10k Road Race or the Family Fun Run and take part in this competitive team-building experience.

“The main aim of the corporate challenge is of course for companies to raise as much money as possible for their chosen charity.”