Sea of red Santas to take over park
AWIDNES park will be filled with red in aid of Halton Haven Hospice when the charity’s annual Santa Dash takes place next month.
Victoria Park will host the event at 11am on Sunday, December 3, in a festive event for all the family.
Many people choose to walk the 4km route each year.
Everyone taking part receives a Santa suit, creating a fantastic sight on event day as hundreds of Santas dash the three-and-a-half lap route around Victoria Park.
Upon finishing, runners will receive their medal and be treated to a celebratory festive mince pie.
Now in its seventh year, the Halton Haven Santa Dash originally took runners over the Silver Jubilee Bridge Widnes.
But with the increase in vehicle traffic on the bridge in recent years, Halton Haven was no longer able to continue the tradition and led to the move to Victoria Park.
Halton Haven community fundraising manager Chris Andrews said: “We’ve brought in a couple of changes for this year’s Santa Dash – namely, the reversed route and a brand new medal.
“So we’re hoping for another great turn out from the people of Halton, and plenty of money raised for the hospice.”
The event is organised by Halton Haven Hospice to raise funds for the vital care they provide.
The sponsorship raised by runners will allow the hospice to continue caring for people in Halton living with life-limiting conditions.
Only half of Halton Haven’s £2.5m between Runcorn and annual running costs are covered by Government funding, with the remaining £1.25m raised by residents who take part in sponsored events, make donations and leave gifts in wills.
Last Christmas, teenager Marcus Southern took part in a Santa Dash and raised more than £800 for Halton Haven after his father was cared for there.
Marcus said: “One of the main reasons I chose to do the Santa Dash is because I feel that I need to give something back to the hospice since they cared for my dad so well.
“And since he also loved to help others, I’d like to follow in his footsteps and carry on his legacy.”
Anyone wanting to take part in the Santa Dash can contact Halton Haven’s fundraising team on 01928 712 728, email info@haltonhaven. co.uk or visit www.haltonhaven.org. uk/santa-dash ●