Go, go, go! Racers to suit up for Santa run

ON the run . . . Santa dash runners (from the left) Claire Breen, Carol Price, Melanie Whittle and Gabriella Maragioglio.

A HAPPY army of charity fundraising 'Santas' will flood two Saddleworth villages when a unique Christmas event returns in December.

Dynamic Saddleworth Round Table plan to present their second 'Santa Dash' on Saturday, December 3, starting at 2.30pm.

Last year, more than 100 people braved heavy rain to take part in the inaugural race - and David Wood, Saddleworth Round Table chairman, forecasts the event will be even bigger and better this year.

"We want to build on the success and have set ourselves a target of 500 people signing up - and it's looking promising," he said.

This year the two courses have been altered with a shorter 2km route offering a fairly flat route suitable for children and parents with pushchairs.

There is also as a longer 5km route, with participants of any age choosing which they prefer to tackle.

The entry fee is £10 for over 18s, £5 for 5-18 years, with under-fives free. Entry fee includes medals and a Santa suit for adults or Santa hat for children.

Both courses start in the Square in Uppermill at 2.30pm, with road closures in place from 2.25pm until 2.50pm on the High Street between the Square and Bridge Street.

Organisers forecast all participants should have crossed the finish line by 3.30pm.

David added: "We have completely different routes this year. We've lowered it so it takes in Greenfield and cuts across to Uppermill as the feedback was last time's route went too high.

"Revolution 96.2 are on board to help build a great atmosphere before the Santa Dash and be part of the prize-giving in the Square afterwards."

The Santa Dash is now an official part of Round Table's Christmas festivities in Uppermill and will lead to their 'Switch On' festivities from 4pm in association with Uppermill Lights Committee.

Spectators can watch Father Christmas pulled on his sleigh by Saddleworth Morris Men to turn on the Christmas lights, enjoy a host of stalls and a spectacular fireworks display.

The Saddleworth Santa Dash and Switch On event will help raise funds for Round Table's charitable trust supporting local charities, groups and good causes.

For more information and tickets for the festive Santa Dash and Switch On event visit the Round Table's Facebook page at facebook.com/SaddleworthRT.

Discounts are available to groups of at least 10, including sports teams, clubs or groups of friends or work colleagues - message Round Table through their Facebook page.