Hundreds of aspiring Santas are being encouraged to participate in the Halton Haven Hospice Santa Dash.

The festive event, which takes place on December 15, sees local people dressed in Santa suits taking part in the 3km fun run from the West Bank Boat Club Café in Spike Island, Widnes, to the finish line by Costa in Runcorn.

Halton Haven Hospice and this year’s sponsor, merseyflow, are urging more people to join in to raise the much-needed funds to continue providing a peaceful space, specialist end-of-life care, and support in the area.

Merseyflow will also be joining in the festive spirit by entering a team of staff into the fun run.

Tina Gill, fundraising manager at Halton Haven Hospice, said: "It is always an amazing sight, seeing hundreds of Santas running over the Silver Jubilee Bridge in support of our local hospice.

"We are encouraging everyone to come along, pick up your Santa suit, and be part of something special."

Helen Williams, marketing manager for merseyflow, said: "We are delighted to support Halton Haven Hospice this year as the Santa Dash sponsors.

"The dedicated Halton Haven team do an amazing job caring for residents and their families.

"We would love members of the community to sign up to help raise much-needed funds for this fantastic cause."

The entry fee for the Santa Dash is £20 for adults and £10 for children up to 16 years old.

Under 5s go free, although no Santa suit is provided, and dogs can join for £2.

A family ticket is £50.

The registration cost includes a Santa suit, a medal on completion, and a mince pie.

Under 5s are encouraged to come along in their own fancy dress.

To sign up, visit the event's website.

Registration forms and sponsor forms can be collected from Halton Haven Hospice Reception or the Halton Haven Shop, Queens Avenue, Widnes.