Twenty people from the world of business recently took part in a joint social sport event at Truro Bowl with members of ROC Welcome – a vibrant social club operated by ROC, a charity which supports local people with learning disabilities. The event, a spin off from the launch of this year’s ROC 5K charity fun run, was designed to bring together sponsors, runners and beneficiaries.

The ROC 5K (3 miles) fun run, one of the most scenic in the country, is taking place in Truro on the evening of Tuesday 28th June. ROC is hopeful of another ‘sell out’ occasion with 500 people taking their places on the starting line. For information about The ROC 5K, go to www.roc-uk.org/ROC5K500

Cornish Mutual, a major sponsor of The ROC 5K, took part in the ten pin event. Amanda Booker, Member Services Co-ordinator, said: ‘What came through at Truro Bowl is that we’re all on the same spectrum, with differing abilities. Ten pin is a great leveler and a great way to engage with the people ROC support. ROC has learned that the most important value in caring for people is to discover their individuality. We’re all human persons who deserve equality, dignity and respect.’

Jody Woolcock, a member of the Cornish Mutual after work running group said: ‘We really enjoyed meeting first-hand some of the members of ROC Welcome. Their warmth, friendliness and complete happiness was very uplifting. ROC Welcome is clearly so beneficial to them. To be able to think of specific people who will benefit from our fundraising through The ROC 5K is very motivating.’

Paul Deakin, ROC’s Cornwall manager, said: ‘From past experience we know that joint social sports events of this kind very positively promote inclusion. Our members were delighted so many visitors attended – they love bowling and visitors. Support from organisations like the Cornish Mutual enables our members to really grow in confidence and take part in everyday activities.’

The funds raised by The ROC 5K 500 will support ROC Welcome, a vibrant social opportunity for local people with learning disabilities which is based at Truro College. The club, one of the largest of its kind in the county, is entirely dependent on voluntary donations.

For information about The ROC 5K 500 and how to register, go to www.roc-uk.org/ROC5K500

The minimum age is 11.