Dust off your elf costume, don your jingle bells and join others for a festive fun run that will really get you in the Christmas spirit. Not one, but two Maggie's Family Elf Runs will be taking place in Scotland this year, with Glasgow kicking off the fun on 26 November and Larbert following suit on 4 December. 

The Christmas-themed family events are entirely focused on fun, so participants can walk or run the route and dogs on leads are welcome too. Sign up and take part with family, friends or work colleagues, it’s free to register and all the charity ask is that those taking part do their best to raise a minimum sponsorship of £50. Money raised will help Maggie’s to continue providing free practical, emotional and social support for people living with cancer.

The Glasgow event is a 2K route through the woodland pathways surrounding the centre at Gartnavel which sits opposite the Beatson in the city's west end. The Maggie's Christmas Fayre will also be taking place in the centre, so pop in for Christmas goodies, a magical Santa's grotto, live carol singers and more. You can also pick up stocking fillers from some wonderful local stall-holders.

Maggie’s Glasgow Centre Head, Kerry Craig, said: "Unfortunately, cancer doesn’t stop for Christmas. The funds raised at the Elf Run and Fayre will hugely help us to support people living with cancer and their family and friends over the festive period and beyond.”

The Larbert event is a 1.5 mile route through the beautiful Larbert Woods which surround Maggie’s Forth Valley centre. Last year more than 50 people dressed up as elves to take part in the fun run, which raised around £5,000 for the cause.

Cristina Pouso, centre fundraising manager, said: “Our Elf Family Fun Run on Sunday was a great day. We were so lucky with the weather, the atmosphere was festive and fun and hopefully got everyone in the Christmas mood." 

The hope is that this year'e events will be just as successful. If you'd like to know more visit the Glasgow page here and Larbert here. 

Image: Maggie's