Sunday 14th June 2009 saw Shenstone Fun Run kick off with a cheering crowd to support the 500 runners. The annual event, which was sponsored by 1-2-1 Leasing Ltd, and Burchell Edwards Estate Agents took place along the sunny streets of the small Staffordshire village of Shenstone.

Supported by local radio station BRMB who entertained the huge crowds, the event was started and finished by ex Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland player, Steve Staunton as well as John Wilson from the main sponsor, 121 Leasing Ltd.

The 10km event took place in order to raise money for the National Autistic Society, Cancer Research UK and local school, Greysbrooke. 

Graham Jones, organising chairman of the fun run said: “I can’t believe the support that is here today from all aspects, runners said every corner they turned there were people clapping and lifting them all, the amount of participants is well over what I expected and to have a main sponsor that has brought so much to the event really has been a massive boost as the support of the local businesses in the area has too. We could not have achieved such a successful result without the support of our other sponsor, Burchell Edwards, thank you for their wholehearted support.”

“I must also thank the volunteers, for somebody with the stature of Steve Staunton to come and get involved like is has today is beyond words, the marshals who have lined the course on a Sunday morning really have capsulated the spirit of the event and I am so happy with the whole day, there are so many people to thank in the community and wider.”

John Wilson managing director of 121 Leasing Ltd said “When Graham approached me about the event I thought the timescales were pretty tight but on turning up today and seeing the spectacle I can’t praise the whole organising committee enough, we must also include a special mention to people like Graham Poll and Steve Staunton who have thrown their weight fully behind the day and prove that village life is important to even the highest profile professionals.”

Dawn Oakley, Marketing Director of Burchell Edwards Estate Agents commented,

“We are proud to be part of a continuing campaign of support for local community events. What could be more fitting than to help raise money for such worthwhile charities.”

Steve Staunton added; “This village has been waiting for this day for five years and supporting the event was the least I could do.”

You can still donate to any of the causes through www.shenstonefunrun.co.uk and there is also merchandise available for the event through the contact page.

Graham Jones finished off by saying, “Now I can rest”, but not for long Graham, the village is already looking forward to 2010.