The North Ayrshire Santa Dash will be held on Sunday, 24 November to coincide with the town’s Christmas lights switch-on, fun fayre and the arrival of the real Santa.

Up to 500 Santas of all ages will head out on a flat 3k run to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, while also raising funds to help those in need this Christmas. The entry fee includes a Santa suit, race number and commemorative bespoke medal; it also includes a post-run mince pie and cup of mulled wine.

Entry fees will also go towards funding the North Ayrshire Food Bank Christmas hamper drive, which ensures people in the local community who can’t afford a Christmas feast can still enjoy a festival meal with their families.

Runners can wear their own Santa suits, but will still be required to pay the entry fee. Children under two in buggies are free, as are well-behaved dogs on leads. Organisers Blue Sports encourage the wearing of Santa suits by both!

The route is still subject to final confirmation but will be suitable for wheelchairs and mobility aids and be based around the town centre of Saltcoats.

As this is a fun run and charity fundraiser, organisers would like to remind budding Santas that there will be timing or prizes.

Entries are now available online, but will close on Wednesday, 13 November.

Image: Blue Sports (Facebook)