HALESOWEN Athletics Club have kicked off their centenary celebrations with an event to mark the beginning of their milestone year.

More than 40 runners from the club gathered near the site of their original headquarters on Hagley Street to honour legendary runner Jack Price, who was the founder member of the club.

Price was one of the country’s leading marathon runners at the start of the 20th century, winning the Midlands marathon trial race in 1908 before going on to compete in the Olympic Games in London later that year.

Returning to Halesowen after serving in the First World War, Price persuaded three friends to join him on a cross country run and Halesowen Athletics Club was born in December 1922.

Speaking at the event, club chair Steven Millington said: “Halesowen is a strong, vibrant club, which has over the past 100 years, given thousands of people the opportunity to train and compete as athletes, regardless of age or ability.

“We all owe a massive thanks to Jack Price for founding the club which has become a massive part of our lives and led us to form friendships which have lasted for many years.”

Centenary events are planned throughout the year, and former members are encouraged to join in.

New members are also welcome, to find out more and getting involved, email centenary@halesowen-athleticclub.co.uk