THE streets of Ledbury will be turned red and white as an army of Christmas characters dash through the town spreading festive cheer.

People of all ages and physical abilities are being urged to embrace the seasonal spirit and sign up for the second annual fund-raising Santa Dash.

The event is taking place on the morning of Saturday, December 21, and will once again be following a leisurely oneand- a-half mile route along the town trail and then into the High Street.

But for the more athletic Santas, or those looking for a challenge, there is also an option to complete a four-mile jog with Ledbury Harriers Running Club before joining the main pack.

Last year, more than 70 Santas took part, raising more than £150 for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.

This year, the Santa Dash is supporting Acorns Children’s Hospice and organiser Sam Scholefield is hoping for even more support.

“As well as having a lot of fun, the Santas will be hoping to collect money to help those who may be less fortunate this Christmas,” he said.

Mandie Fitzgerald, community fund-raising manager at Acorns, said: “As we rely on fundraising and donations to keep our services running, events like this are vital and make a real difference.

“We currently support lots of children and families in Ledbury so we hope people get involved to help bring in the festive cheer and support a local cause this Christmas.”

For more information about the Santa Dash, e-mail ledburysantadash @hotmail.com. Or donations can be made directly in the physiotherapy department at Ledbury Community Health and Care Centre.