Wolverhampton set to host charity Santa run
Wolverhampton will host its very own charity Santa Run this year.
Beacon Centre, the sight loss charity, is joining forces with RNIB to hold a Santa Run in the idyllic surroundings of West Park.
Participants can run, walk or jog around the 5k course – the only requirement is that they wear a Santa suit while doing it, which will be provided by the charities to make sure runners really get into the spirit of Christmas.
Those taking part get to keep the suit at the end.
The run takes place on December 4 between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
A £10 entrance fee will go towards supporting the two organisations.
Youngsters are also welcome to go along with an adult and complete a one-mile lap of the park for a £5 ticket.
They get a Santa hat to wear on the way around which they can take home.
As it's a flat course, it is also suitable for those living with sight loss who may want to take part.
Beacon Centre chief executive Arwyn Jones, who is among those already signed up to take part on the day, said: "The Santa Run is a great way to spend time with your loved ones during this special time of year while raising money for two charities that help those with sight loss."
The Beacon Centre aims to help local people with sight loss live fuller and more independent lives.
It provides residential services, an independent living centre and community services. At Sedgley, it also has the UK's first accredited social enterprise opticians.
To book a place on the charity Santa Run, go to beaconvision.org/santa-run.
Wolverhampton's Santa Run follows hot on the heels of a similar event in Sandwell which launched in 2015.
The Sandwell dash starts at 11am on December 10 at Sandwell Valley Country Park.
Last year's inaugural event saw a sea of red and white across Sandwell Valley.
Registration for the second annual event is now open.
People of all ages dressed up as Santa can take part. Runners aren't required to collect sponsorship, but people who want to raise money for good causes are welcome to.
Councillor Richard Marshall said: "Last year it was incredible to see so many people out and dressed up as Santa – it's a brilliant start to Christmas."
To register, visit www.mytimeactive.co.uk/sandwell-santa-dash
