Bonfire night has passed, which can mean only one thing… Christmas is coming! And with it there is a slew of festive events on the running calendar. 

Taking place on 5 December, the Carlisle Santa Dash 5K & 2K Fun Run has two objectives this year. One, to raise as much money as possible for the Jigsaw Charity, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice and two, for all runners to have fun and enjoy the day - whatever the weather. 

Jigsaw is Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice and provides support to children and young adults with life limiting conditions throughout the county. Jigsaw’s home-from-home environment allows the nurses to match the children and young adults home routine as closely as possible, ensuring a smooth, relaxing and peaceful transition between the home and hospice environments. 

Organisers are keen to raise lots of money for this extremely worthwhile cause, saying: “At a time of the year when children should be in the forefront of all our minds, we will do all we can for Jigsaw. At this race there will be no winners prizes, Jigsaw will be the winner!”

Starting off at Sheepmount in the city’s Bitts Park, all participants will receive a festive medal on completing their Santa Dash that can be worn with pride and then displayed on their Christmas trees for all to see. Organisers are also promising mince pies, treats and biscuits - well, it is Christmas!

One runner who can’t wait is Beki Turner-Saunders, who commented on Facebook: “Yessss! Favourite run of the year!”

If you can’t take part but would like to help out, why not volunteer to be a race marshall? Santa suits will be provided! Contact details can be found on the event website. 

If you would like to find out more then visit the Sport In Action website. 

Image: Sport In Action/Carlos Reina Photography