Havens Hospices will be welcoming back hundreds of Santas to its annual Run Santa Run event in Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon on Sunday 4th December.
The event is being supported by Basildon-based South Essex Gymnastics club which trains some of the country’s and Europe’s best gymnasts including Max Whitlock, Georgia-May Fenton and Courtney Tulloch.
With a choice of either a 2K or 4K, this is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit with friends, family and colleagues all while raising vital funds for Little Havens, the charity’s children’s hospice.
Alongside the two fun runs, the big man himself will be inside the Blunts Cottage grotto. There will also be toy sales, Christmas Carols and festive refreshments to enjoy while supporters soak up the Christmassy atmosphere.
Members of the gymnastics club will be running as a team on the day and will be leading the warm-up at the start line to get all the Santas ready for their race.
Cara Mulreany, Head of Events at the club said: “South Essex Gymnastics Club is delighted to support Havens Hospices in its Run Santa Run event this year. The club is proud to support our local community for such a wonderful charity. We can’t wait to get involved with all the fun on the day and hope the event raises as much as possible for children and young people across Essex who need hospice care.”
Early Bird ticket registration is now open giving participants the chance to save pounds until the end of October. Entry includes a free Santa suit for adults and for younger participants, a pair of reindeer antlers.
Susie May, Events Fundraiser at Havens Hospices says: “We cannot wait to bring a flash of Christmas cheer back to Wat Tyler Park after a three-year break due to the pandemic.
“There truly isn’t a better way to kick off your festive celebrations with family and friends, you can even bring your dog along! The atmosphere on the day is electric, where participants can soak up the Christmas spirit and most importantly raise money for Essex’s only children’s hospice, Little Havens.
“The charity must raise more than £52,000 each week to be there for every child who needs us in the community, and its events like this that help us continue ‘Making every day count.’”
Early Bird tickets cost £12 for adults, £6 for children and a family ticket (two adults, two children) is £30. To sign up today visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/santarun
For those who would rather join in the fun closer to home, a virtual Run Santa Run option is available. Grab some festive fancy dress and complete 2K or 4k either on your own or with family and friends, anytime between 2nd – 9th December. It’s free to register but the charity asks supporters to fundraise between £25 and £150, depending on how many are participating. A medal will be awarded to those who reach their fundraising target. For more information visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/virtualsantarun
Published 20th October 2022
