A MAJOR recruitment drive is under way at a Cradley Heath school to sign up a 200-strong team of pupils and staff to compete in the Black Country Road Run.

Ormiston Forge Academy is leading the way as one of the first to take up the event’s inaugural schools’ challenge.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club, which organises the 10k race and 5k fun run, has introduced the competition with a cup for the school that raises the most sponsorship money.

Ormiston headteacher Andrew Burns, who is also taking part, said: "It's vitally important that our commitment to the community and the health of the people of the community extend beyond the walls of the academy.

“The Black Country Road Run is the perfect opportunity for us to come together as a family, raise funds for a fantastic charity and keep fit.

“We never do things by half at Forge and are recruiting students and staff at a pace. We hope to have many runners.”

They can chose whether to take part in the 10k or the 5k and their chosen charity will be decided by the school council.

Rotarian and event director Alan Bowler said: “We are so delighted that Ormiston has taken up the challenge with such enthusiasm.

“We are looking for as many schools as possible to enter teams and for parents to join in as well. They can run for a charity of their own choice or for the Rotary charities.”

The Halesowen event, which is part of this year’s Black Country Festival, is now in its fourth year and is on Sunday July 5.

To sign up, visit theblackcountryrun.com