RUNNERS are being encouraged to complete a picturesque route for a good cause.

The Evesham Town 10K race was officially launched earlier this week with Evesham and District Mental Health Support Services the chosen charity for this year's event.

The race, which is taking place for the tenth time, takes runners through the centre of Evesham and into its parks before passing alongside the River Avon.

Race organiser, Colin Tether said: "The Evesham Race is now well established and we have continued to have a good entry.

"This year we are running to support a local and very good Mental Health Charity and we really hope that lots of Evesham people will support the race.

"After the main race we have the children’s races which are lots of fun. So everyone can take part, young and old, fast and slow are all welcome to enjoy the day."

The race takes place on Sunday July 9, beginning at 10am at Crown Meadow and organised by Evesham Vale Running Club.

Organisers are welcoming entries from local businesses, pubs and clubs as well as sponsorship from local businesses.

The shorter races for children will start at 11.30am.

Sally Earley from Evesham and District Mental Health Support Services said: "2EDMHSS are delighted to have been chosen by the Evesham Town 10K race organisers as their charity of 2017.

"At a time when Mental Health Awareness is receiving a lot of high profile attention and acknowledgement we are always looking for ways to raise awareness of the services that we provide.

"Physical exercise is well known to help people with mental health issues. We are looking forward to being there on the 9th July and cheering everyone on."

All the runners in the 10K race will receive a medal and a t-shirt, whilst all children running will receive medals.

To find out more about the partner charity, visit: https://edmhss.org/ or their offices on Church Street in Bengeworth.

Entry will cost £15 in advance or £18 on the day for those who are not members of Evesham Vale Running Club, members will get a £2 discount on each price.

To find out more about the race or to enter, go to http://www.eveshamvalerunningclub.org.uk/evesham-10k/