Former Paralympic world record holder announced as Birketts’ Race4Business ambassador

Now in its 17th year, the annual Chelmsford 3.5 mile run has raised almost £500,000 for good causes in the region and this year’s event aims to raise £25,000 for Age UK Essex.

Rafael Ruiz, a partner in Birketts' award-winning corporate and commercial team, commented: “We are delighted that Danny will be taking part again this year. Danny was born in Essex and has reached the very top of his profession. This is your opportunity to join us and say that you’ve run with a true sporting great – someone who has won multiple gold medals and held a world record.”

Danny enjoyed a hugely successful sporting career and represented Great Britain at three Paralympic games as well as holding an ambassador role for the London 2012 bid. He famously won gold in the men’s 800 meters T46 final at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games, a year which also saw him set a new world record.

Danny Crates said: “The team at Birketts has achieved a fantastic amount for charities throughout the Essex region over the years. This year’s chosen charity, Age UK Essex, provides invaluable services and support for the older population in Essex and I’m delighted to lend my support.”

Rafael added: “We encourage businesses throughout the region to enter Birketts’ Race4Business and help raise funds for Age UK Essex. Registrations close shortly, so if you’d like to run alongside a true sporting icon register today.”

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 the back of Birketts’ offices on Bradford Street. The event is open to people of all abilities with each runner being given an individual timing chip to ensure accurate results.

For more information, or to register, please visit www.birketts.co.uk/race4business