ORGANISERS of the annual Santa Fun run have announced that registration for this year's event is now open.

The popular 4km fun run will take place on Sunday, December 7 in Chelmsford’s Central Park.

Last year, 570 Santas took part in the seasonal event and raised almost £30,000 for Farleigh Hopsice between them.

The money has already been transformed into high quality care and support for local people affected by life limiting illnesses and their families, when and where they need it most.

The Hughes family from Chelmsford are the official faces of this year's campaign.

Joanne Hughes said: "It was such good news when we were told we were going to feature in the 2014 ‘Santa Fun Run’ campaign. We are really excited about being on the leaflets and posters!

"The ‘Santa Fun Run’ is just such a great idea – it is really well organised and a fabulous way to raise money for such a worthy cause. We will definitely be running again this year. We’d just like to say good luck to Farleigh Hospice with all their fundraising!"

Sarah Stoddart, Farleigh Hospice’s PR & Marketing Assistant, said: "I attended last year’s event and the atmosphere really was incredible.

"A sea of Santas running, jogging and walking around Central Park on a Sunday morning in December is definitely a sight to behold.

"This year’s event looks set to be no different. The 4km fun run is ideal for all ages and provides a morning of pure festive fun for the whole family – including pets!

"Not only is the event itself a lot of fun to take part in – and I should know as I have taken part myself in previous years! – you can also be secure in the knowledge that your sponsorship will help Farleigh Hospice in its mission to meet the needs of local people affected by life limiting illnesses and to support those who have been bereaved."

There is a £10 registration fee for adults and a £5 registration fee for children under the age of 16 which includes a Santa suit for adults and a Santa hat for younger children (under 5’5”).

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. You can register right now on the Farleigh Hospice website at www.farleighhospice.org/santa, or by calling the Fundraising Team on 01245 457408.

Pre-registration will close on Weds 26th November.

With the registration fee going towards the cost of running the event, Farleigh Hospice hopes that each participant will raise as much sponsorship money as possible to help them to carry on caring for local people.