Santas on the run in 2013. Helen & Douglas House
Registration for Oxford’s popular ‘Santas on the Run’ which takes place on Sunday December 14, opens this week to raise money for Helen & Douglas House children’s and young adults’ hospice.
This is the eighth year the event has taken place, and it is now one of the biggest Santa runs in the UK, with 1,700 people taking part. The two-mile festive fun run, which takes participants through the centre of Oxford and University Parks, has a loyal following and every year sells out weeks in advance. This run is suitable for anyone of any age and many families and teams take part.
Christmas is a special time of year for children to enjoy, but for many families with a child with a life-shortening condition this can be a very difficult time. Whether they are mourning the loss of a child or trying to juggle Christmas preparations, this can be a stressful period when they need support and specialist care from Helen & Douglas House.
Poppy Hanbury, Activity and Events Manager at Helen & Douglas House said: “Last year we sold out two weeks before the event and raised an amazing £70,000 for our charity. This money is enough to pay for 10 days of specialist hospice care over the Christmas period. Christmas is a special time for families and even moreso for those who visit Helen & Douglas House. Each year we try and make the time leading up to the festive season memorable with lots of festive parties, music and pantomimes as well as our annual Santa Run. We are finding that more people are entering as teams from local companies, families and friends and schools because it is great fun.”
Geoff Munday from Abingdon who took part last year said: “It was a great day. It was the first time I’ve ever done a sponsored run. Amazing people, amazing atmosphere, amazing cause. Thanks to the elves – you all made such a difference.”
If you would like to take part, entry for adults is £17 and children 5-12 years old, £12 and you get a FREE Santa suit. Children under 5 are free.
To secure your place at this year’s ‘Santas on the Run’, go to www.helenanddouglas.org.uk. For more information, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01865 799150.
