The Simon Community NI has been selected as the charity partner for the 2018 Grant Thornton Runway Run.

The charity, which works to help the thousands of people recognised as homeless or who are facing homelessness across Northern Ireland, will join the leading business advisory firm at the popular event which is returning to George Best Belfast City Airport for a fourth time next month.

The 5k team race will once again see 600 runners from businesses across all sectors taking to the runway at 11pm on Thursday 21 June.

Richard Gillan, Managing Partner of Grant Thornton in Northern Ireland, said:

“The Grant Thornton Runway Run creates lasting memories each year for the hundreds of businessmen and women that take part, because of the unique nature of this hugely successful event.

“And while it is certainly a fun – and highly competitive – evening, an important element of the race is to raise much-needed funds for charity.

“We have been privileged to support a different charity each year, with the Mary Peters Trust and the Make A Wish Foundation among previous recipients. This year, we are delighted to partner with the Simon Community NI.

“While providing clients with excellent service is our main business aim, we also have a corporate responsibility to support our local community and this is something we take very seriously.

“Situated in the heart of Belfast city centre, we are only too aware of the very real problem of homelessness, not just locally but across Northern Ireland, and are delighted to support Simon Community NI as they seek to eradicate it.”

As Northern Ireland’s largest homeless charity, the Simon Community NI provides housing for the homeless and advice for those at risk of becoming homeless. The charity aims to facilitate those in need through the transition back into independent living.

Brian Shanks, Corporate Partnerships Manager at the Simon Community NI, said:

“By offering a range of services, Simon Community NI is able to support thousands of people across Northern Ireland who are recognised as homeless or who are facing homelessness. With the continued generosity of the public and our corporate partners we are able to help even more individuals each year.

“We wish to thank both Grant Thornton for choosing the Simon Community NI as its charity partner for this year’s race, and all participating teams for their support in helping to realise our vision of a society where everyone has a home.”

Grant Thornton has recruited radio presenter Pete Snodden to provide commentary of the race, while each participant will also receive a commemorative medal for taking part.

The race is open to all businesses and organisations, who are invited to enter a team of four, in one or more of three categories – male, female and mixed.

Prizes will be awarded in each category, with team members’ finishing times combined to determine the winner.

To register for the 2018 Grant Thornton Runway Run and to view full terms and conditions, please visit www.grantthorntonni.com/runway-run.

All updates will also be posted on Grant Thornton’s Twitter account – @GrantThorntonNI – and under #GTRunwayRun.