With Christmas just around the corner, Dorothy House Hospice Care in Winsley got into the festive spirit by launching their annual Santa Dash event.

Now in its fourth year, the 6km Santa Dash offers competitors an all-terrain course to and from the Winsley based hospice grounds which they can either run, jog or walk.

It is hoped the event, which attracted more than 150 runners last year, will see a record number of entrants compete in the event and help raise £15,000 in support of the Dorothy House Day Patient Unit.

 John Davies, Dorothy House chief executive, will be donning his red suit and taking part in the run for the first time this year and hopes that others will follow his lead.

He said: “I think if I am prepared to get my knees dirty then other people will and if that then improves the numbers of people that run then that will hopefully increased our fundraising efforts and in turn our services.”

A new edition to the event will be a fancy dress parade for under 11s who will welcome back runners to the finish line when the event is held on Sunday, December 7.

Runners will also be kitted out in Santa trousers, jacket, belt, hat and beard to add to the festivities.

Mr Davies added that: “We are trying to put the fun back into fundraising and we hope that this event will do that.”

Registration is £15 or there is an ‘early bird’ offer of £10 if you book before November 14. It is hoped that runners will collect a minimum of £25 in sponsor money. You can register for the Santa Dash at www.dhsantadash.co.uk