Robin Hood might have been Sherwood Forest's most famous resident, but on Sunday 22 November the woodland could be welcoming rather more Santas than outlaws.

The Sherwood Christmas 10K & 5K returns to Sherwood Pines near Mansfield, bringing an early helping of festive cheer to Nottinghamshire's running calendar.

Organised by Nice Work, the event combines 10K and 5K races with a dedicated Junior Run, making it a morning for younger runners as well as those tackling the longer distances.

The setting is a big part of the attraction. Both main races follow undulating, multi terrain routes through Sherwood Pines, with forest trails providing a rather different experience from the usual Christmas road race.

And while there are trophies and prizes for the leading runners, speed isn't the only way to impress. Festive fancy dress is actively encouraged, with a special prize for the runner who catches Santa's eye as the best dressed.

The Junior Run gets the morning underway at 9:30am, followed by the 5K and 10K at 10:00am. Finishers receive a bespoke medal, with free race photography helping to capture the occasion.

There is a charitable purpose behind the festivities too, with the event supporting Shelter and its work helping people affected by homelessness and the housing emergency.

Entries remain open across all three distances, giving runners plenty of opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit before December even arrives.

Just remember, if you decide to dress as Santa, those undulating forest trails might make delivering the presents rather hard work.

You can enter right now via the runABC race hub.

Image courtesy Nice Work.