Shepton Mallet businesswoman Helen Lacey is inviting Somerset businesses to join her on an 8km assault course in aid of local charities to mark her year as chairman of Somerset Chamber of Commerce.

Helen, of Red Berry Recruitment, which is now part of the HR GO plc Group and has offices in Shepton Mallet and Yeovil, has organised the Chairman's Challenge in aid of local charities who are currently members the chamber.

Helen said: "In November last year I was given the coveted role of chairman of Somerset Chamber of Commerce after serving as a board member for five years, including three as vice-chair.

"I am legally only allowed to sit as the chairman for one year as I can only serve on the board for one more year, so I want to make it a year to remember, not only by helping govern the board, but also by raising money for the fantastic charities that are members of the chamber."

Helen is no stranger to charitable causes and fundraising having previously supported Christmas charity shoebox appeals and taken part in sponsored events.

She has raised more than £25,000 for good causes since she launched Red Berry Recruitment in 2007.

The Chairman's Challenge will take place at the Grail Quest course between Langport and Long Sutton on Saturday, September 5, with challenges including Battle of the Wessex and Lady of the Lake. Helen is hoping to raise at least £2,500 for good causes.

More information about the course is available online at: https://grailquestrace.co.uk/. Businesses and individuals who would like to take part must register and book their place through the website and will receive a discount by entering the word "chamber" in the relevant discount box.

"If you feel up for the Chairman's Challenge then please get in touch with me it's going to be great fun, challenging, both physically and mentally, but a great experience, while also raising money for some great local charities," said Helen.

Helen can be contacted for more information by emailing [email protected].

Anyone who would like to donate can find out more here.