THE EVER popular Oldbury Fun Run will once again see runners – professional and amateur alike pounding the tarmac in Oldbury-on-Severn.

Last year, more than 800 runners took part in the 6km raising an impressive £10,000 – mostly for the event’s main beneficiary CLIC Sargent.

Registration for this year’s run is already open with organisers hoping to have over 1,000 people this time around.

The event is run with support of Thornbury Running Club who help to ensure that Oldbury Fun Run’s reputation as a professional running event is maintained.

Chris Awde, one of a team of 15 committee members who organise the annual event welcomed their support.

“Because of the connections we have with local running clubs Oldbury Fun Run is well-known in running circles as a good race to enter.

“We pride ourselves on putting a competitive run on whilst also making sure that families can have a good day out every year.

CLIC Sargent receive between 90 and 95 per cent of all the funds raised each year, however a small pot is kept back each year for local good causes and to cover the costs of hosting the event.

Last year the group made a donation to the village church following a burglary.

A road closure is in place during the event however dozens of volunteers still turn out to help marshal the race as well as helping out with running the event.

Mr Awde added: “The whole day is fantastic. The committee has a lot of experience in running the race because it’s being going on for so many years but we have the help of between 40 and 50 volunteers who help, especially the closer we get to race day.”

Since the first race was held more than £75,000 has been raised for CLIC Sargent.

A variety of stalls and attractions are available throughout the day. Parking is available at several places in the village.

Online registration is open at www.oldburyfunrun.co.uk. Entry forms can also be printed from the website.

This year’s race will be held on Sunday, June 28, starting from the centre of Oldbury-on-Severn.