COUNCIL leader Malcolm Doherty will lead a team of keep-fit enthusiasts from Blackburn Town Hall in a fun run designed to raise public awareness on health.

The four runners will tackle a course in and around Witton Park during the Corporate Challenge fun run in August.

It is part of an initiative organised by Blackburn with Darwen Council, the East Lancashire Health Authority and NHS North West.

The five kilometre challenge is one of eight races being organised with the aim of encouraging people of all ages and ability to keep fit.

Veteran road racer Coun Doherty will head the team. He will be joined by football league referee and housing director Phil Richards, Coun Kathy Ramsden and operations director Ian Stephenson.

Businesses and organisations from across East Lancashire are expected to take part in the event on Sunday, August 3.

Coun Doherty said: "Blackburn with Darwen Council is pleased to be hosting the East Lancashire race.

"The challenge is not only to encourage runners to take part in a competitive event but to give people who may not be so experienced an incentive to exercise for fun."

Teams of four can apply providing one member is a woman and one over 36-years-old.

The winning team will be given £100 to donate to a charity of their choice and entry forms can be obtained by ringing 01254 585237 or 01282 610243.

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