Leading pizza franchise, Papa John’s, has announced franchisee Syed Shar, is to sponsor the Southampton 10K charity fun-run to be held on Sunday 2 December 2018 at 10am on Southampton Common.

Organised by MCC Promotions, the race is part of the successful Run Series which was originally set up in 2006 and now attracts around 8,000 participants each year, many of whom compete for their nominated Charity.  This year, the Southampton Fun Run is supporting homeless charity: The Society of St James.

Paul Rayment, business development manager Papa John’s comments: “By sponsoring this event we aim to help create a fabulous ‘feel good factor’.  It will be a perfect family day-out with around runners participating from all ages and walks of life.  We have been delighted to support several races in the Race Series initiative throughout 2018 and strengthen links with local communities.”

Mark Caswell, race director MCC Promotions confirms: “Both our nominated charity, The Society of St James, plus other local charities will benefit from the additional exposure association with a big brand like Papa John’s brings.”

Syed Shar, Papa John’s franchisee who runs the Southampton Shirley, Thornhill and Portsmouth stores explains: “I’m delighted to be supporting the Southampton fun run.   I love the fact that everyone is welcome.  It’s great to be able to give something back to the local communities who support our Papa John’s stores plus raise awareness of some of the work that local charities do at the same time.  It really is a win-win situation and I’m very much looking forward to presenting some well-earned medals and trophies to the successful competitors!”

Papa John’s was founded in the USA in 1984 and there are more than 400 stores across the UK and over 5,000 stores in more than 40 international markets and territories.