ST HELENS Council is throwing out an open invitation to runners over the age of 16 to take part in the town's first ever Corporate Cup race.

Teams of four runners/walkers are being sought to tackle the five-kilometre course to promote health and fitness, teamwork and to raise money for charity. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 22 at 6.45pm in the town centre.

There are 11 such events in the North West based on the hugely successful New Orleans Corporate Cup.

Entry fee is £24 per team (to include one female and one member aged 36 plus). The event is open to runners of all levels - novice runners are welcome. Results will be computerised and there will be a specially cast medal to all finishers plus certificates.

Organised by St Helens Council's Service Promotion Section an added boost to runners is a new training programme for both beginners and advanced runners available from Lesley Jackson at St Helens YMCA (01744 23956).

The 30 minutes training starts on July 6 and goes through to September 21. Training dates are Tuesday 11am - beginners; Wednesday 6pm - beginners; Friday 6pm - advanced level and Sunday 12.15pm - intermediate. Changing and shower facilities are available.

Forms will be available shortly from the Service Promotion Section at the Rivington Centre on 01744 455305.

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