All for a great Claus – Santa Dash event raises money for local children’s hospice

Last weekend, hundreds of Santa Dashers made their way along Blackpool’s Promenade, all in the name of charity – Brian House Children’s Hospice.

With the big day just over 3 weeks away, it was the perfect event to get local residents in the Christmas mood, as well as raising vital funds for some of the Fylde coast’s most fragile children.

The two-mile dash took place on Sunday 1^st December, when almost 2,000 people dressed up in bright red Santa suits – as well as lots of dogs too!

Event organiser, Katy Green, said: “Luckily the weather was on our side and everyone had a great time dashing down the promenade in the sunshine.

“This is one of our favourite events on our calendar and a great way to kick-off the festive season. We’re so grateful for everyone who took part, as well as the volunteers and marshals, who provided their time to help with the event.”

This year is also the 10^th anniversary of the Santa Dash, which has raised over £200,000 for the children’s hospice altogether. With almost £30,000 raised for 2019’s Santa Dash, the total just keeps on increasing.

Participants received a bespoke medal for their efforts, as well as a hot chocolate to warm them up after the dash. These warming drinks were kindly sponsored by Hampton by Hilton.

Head of Fundraising, Linzi Warburton, said: “We’re ecstatic with the amount raised this year at our Santa Dash. None of this would be possible however, without the support of our sponsor, Kentown Wizard.

“We’d also like to thank Sandcastle Water Park for hosting the event, ensuring registration for participants was easy to access.

“At Brian House, we receive little government funding, so any donations we receive are essential to keeping the doors open. We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who donned a Santa suit.”

Make sure you get the rest of your sponsorship in before the end of the year, to ensure that the children of Brian House can continue receiving specialist care over Christmas.