The Chelmsford office of regional law firm Birketts has named Age UK Essex as its charity partner for this year’s Race4Business event.

The annual 3.5mile run in Chelmsford, which is open to individuals as well as teams representing local firms, has generated nearly £500,000 for good causes over the years.

Birketts partner Rafael Ruiz said: “I’m delighted to announce that Age UK Essex will be benefitting from the proceeds raised this year.

“Age UK Essex is a local charity and provides services in over 200 towns and villages, helping over 60,000 elderly people across the county. I urge as many people as possible to make this year the best ever.”

He added: “Birketts’ Race4Business has grown out of all recognition from its early years and is now a major event in the Chelmsford calendar. We very much encourage businesses throughout the region to enter, whether they are experienced runners or first timers and whether they want to run, jog or walk. Last year over 1,200 runners entered and we raised £23,000.”

Jean Robinson, head of income generation at Age UK Essex, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be chosen by Birketts as this year’s charity partner.

“Age UK Essex promotes the wellbeing of all older people in Essex and supports a growing number of people in later life. With demand for our support growing, we are striving to raise enough income to enable our services to continue improving the lives of older people throughout the county.”

The 2015 Race4Business takes place on Thursday, June 18, and will open for registration next month.

The course of the race is mainly flat, and takes participants from the High Street, through West Park and Admiral’s Park and finishes at Birketts’ offices on New London Road. The event is open to people of all abilities with each runner being given an individual timing chip to ensure accurate results.