Northamptonshire santas needed for Rainbows Run

Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People will not let the Covid-19 crisis put a dampener on Christmas as it launches its virtual Santa fun run in Northamptonshire.

The charity – which cares for children and young people from Northamptonshire with terminal or life-limiting illnesses – wants the festive cheer to continue and needs the support of people in Northamptonshire to help bring smiles to the children, young people and families who are cared for by the hospice.

People can complete the event any time during December and can choose their own location, route and distance.

All Rainbows asks is that people wear their Santa suits, which are included in the registration fee, and adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Ali Furlong, head of community and events at Rainbows, said: “We are really sad that our Santa runs are unable to take place this year as it is always so much fun and the support from the community is incredible.

“However, we hope that support will continue and that people will wear their Santa suits and take part in the event, which has kindly been sponsored by Lubrizol, virtually.

"We'd love to hear about our Santa runners walking, skipping, skating, riding or even sledging their route.

"The choices are endless and how you want to complete the distance is up to you - the wackier the better we think.

“There is no requirement to fundraise but we would be very grateful for any amount you are able to raise.

"Rainbows only receives 15 percent of its funding from government bodies, so we rely on donations from people like you.

"Just £50 could fund a home visit from a Rainbows nurse, giving respite care to an isolated family.

"Each person who raised £50 will receive their very own Bow Bear soft toy as a thank you for their support.

“With many of our events being cancelled this year, we really hope you join us virtually for what promises to be lots of festive fun for the whole family, at the same time as helping to raise funds to ensure children and young people living with life-limiting conditions in Northamptonshire can continue to receive the vital care they need today, tomorrow and in the future.”

Entry, which includes a Santa suit is £10 and £5 for aged three to 13.

There will also be postage costs for suits.

To sign up, visit rainbows.co.uk/SantaRun2020 or call 01509 638005.

Message from the editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you