With just over a week to go until Santa Dash 2010 – Lancaster’s festive fun run that marks the start of the city’s Christmas celebrations – it’s time to dust off your jingle bells and get in on the action.
For the first time in many years, the city is getting a Christmas tree for all to enjoy in Market Square and the first child across the Santa Dash finish line will get to flick the switch on the tree’s lights. There’s also a fantastic line up of live musical entertainment in Market Square and late night shopping so it’s the perfect occasion to bring out that festive feeling.
The dash starts from Salt Ayre sports centre at 6.00pm on Thursday 25th November so there’s plenty of time to get there after school or work. Why not get a group of your colleagues, friends or family together and take advantage of the special rates for group entries? Advance entries qualify for a discount but don’t worry if you just don’t managed to get organised in time… you can still turn up at Salt Ayre on the day to register.
The short, flat route from Salt Ayre Sports Centre, along the traffic-free riverside path into the city is suitable for all ages and abilities and is fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
If running’s not your thing, that’s fine… it’s not a race and you won’t be timed so whether you run, jog, walk, dance, prance or jingle all the way is entirely up to you. Last year’s dash saw Santas having three legged races and one Santa on a mobility scooter being towed by a couple of trusty reindeer… anything really does go!
Santa suits for the big kids and reindeer antlers and noses for the under 11’s are included in the registration fee with all proceeds from the event going to local charity, CancerCare.
CancerCare is dedicated to providing free of charge, supportive care to more than 1,500 people in the local area each year who are facing cancer, whether as patients, carers or family members. Demand for their services continues to grow and it is hoped that this event will make a positive contribution to the charity’s fundraising efforts.
• For more information or to register for a place in The Santa Dash & Reindeer Run, check out www.thesantadash.org.uk, look out for flyers in local shops or telephone CancerCare on 01524 381820.