More than 750 people will hit the streets of Winchester on December 1 for the annual Naomi House & Jacksplace Santa Fun Run.

The yearly spectacle is a firm favourite in the local hospice’s event calendar, and could see as much as £40,000 raised to care for life limited children and young adults across the Wessex region.

Starting at 9am, runners in their Santa suits will set off from The Broadway before making their way past King Alfred’s Statue, past Winchester College, Winchester Cathedral and sprinting to the finish line down Winchester High Street. Finishers will be greeted by Christmas music, snow, mince pies and a bespoke medal.

The money raised from the event could fund 5 whole days of care at Naomi House children’s hospice, helping families make the most of the festive season and cope on good days, difficult days and last days.

The Santa Fun Run has grown in popularity over the 11 years it has taken place, with the charity needing to find ever-larger venues to accommodate the hundreds of Santas taking part each year.

Keith Wilson, Head of Marketing at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: “Our Santa Fun Run might just be my favourite event of the year, and the sight of hundreds of Santas jogging past Winchester’s many landmarks really kick starts the festive season in the city. Every participant in the Santa Fun Run will be doing something quite extraordinary to support the region’s most medically complex and vulnerable children. There is still time to sign up with friends and family and I would urge people to do so quickly to secure their place.”

Online entry to the Winchester Santa Fun Run is open until 27th November, after which runners will need to register on the day. Places cost £20 for adults and £15 for children with free Santa suits provided to each participant.

Naomi House & Jacksplace is a leading UK hospice charity and currently cares for more than 550 local families. The charity offers respite, emergency, end of life and post-bereavement care from its hospices in Sutton Scotney.

For more information on Naomi House & Jacksplace and to sign up for the Santa Fun Run visit www.naomihouse.org.uk.