Sprinting Santas set to take over Spitalfields

Stumbling across a few hundred exhausted Santa Clauses in London this evening might feel rather like a very weird dream.

But do not be alarmed – it is all part of this year’s ‘Santa Dash’, where families, friends and even wedding groups are getting in the yuletide spirit early by running five kilometres in full Father Christmas attire in the name of charity.

The event, which will see Santa Clauses of all shapes and sizes racing against one another through the streets of London, is raising money for children with disabilities.

It will start and finish at Old Spitalfields Market, where members of the winning Santa team will each be rewarded with a bottle of wine.

The run has raised nearly £10,000 so far for Brainwave, the children’s charity that has organised Santa Dashes for the past seven years.

All proceeds will be going towards helping children with disabilities and additional needs to achieve greater independence.

Details: Tickets are £25 per person, which includes your Santa suit (jacket, trousers, belt, hat, and of course beard!), medal, celebratory drink and a bottle of water. Event starts at 5.30pm and 6.15pm. Must be over 18 to take part