HALTON Haven Hospice’s annual Santa Dash is set to return for its eighth year.

The 4km sponsored run will benefit people who are living with life-limiting conditions and provide them with vital care.

The dash will take place at Victoria Park on Birchfield Road in Widnes at 11am on Sunday December 2 and is open to everyone.

Participants will receive a Santa suit to wear throughout the three-and-a-half lap route around Victoria Park.

Upon finishing, runners will receive their medal and be treated to a festive mince pie.

Now in its eighth year, the Halton Haven Santa Dash originally took runners over the Silver Jubilee Bridge but with the increase in vehicle traffic on the bridge it was moved to Victoria Park.

Chris Andrews, senior fundraising manager at Halton Haven, said “We’re so excited that the Santa Dash is back this year.

"It’s becoming a popular tradition in the area, something which our communities enjoy being a part of and using as a way to support their Hospice.

"The fundraising efforts of last year’s runners saw more than £7,000 raised for the Haven and we’re hoping to top that this year.

"We are delighted to confirm a new sponsor this year too, with Quay Pharma kindly supporting the event.

"We’re very grateful for their support and contribution to the Santa Dash.

“We’ve been keeping a close eye on the progress of the Silver Jubilee Bridge and there is a chance that this year’s Santa Dash may be the last in Victoria Park before going back over the bridge again.

"No guarantees but we’ll be working hard to have the Santa Dash on the bridge again as soon as possible.”

Anyone wanting to take part in the Santa Dash can register via haltonhaven.org.uk/santa-dash, by calling 01928 712 728 or emailing fundraising@haltonhaven.co.uk.