Willen Hospice is inviting local people to Dash in their own way for the our annual Santa Dash, which takes place on Sunday 13 December.

This festive fundraiser usually sees hundreds of people dressed in Santa suits ‘dashing’ around Willen Lake North. This year, to comply with social distancing rules, our Events team will be posting out Santa suits for people to wear on a merry walk, run or jog from their own home – it doesn’t even have to be in Milton Keynes, so friends and family from all over the UK can take part.

Tracey Jago, Events Manager at Willen Hospice, said: “Our Santa Dash has become an annual favourite for many families, and although it’s a shame we can’t gather this year, it will still be a lot of fun.

“Whether your Dash is in memory of a loved one, a chance to do something fun as a family, or simply a change to your usual run, by taking part you’ll be helping to raise vital funds for families facing an incredibly tough Christmas, made even more difficult by COVID-19.

“I’d like to thank Mercedes Benz and Brioche Pasquier UK for sponsoring this year’s event.”

Places can be booked at www.willen-hospice.org.uk/santadash. Registration is £15 for adults including a Santa suit; £7.50 for a child’s Santa suit, or £5 for a Santa hat, and £2.50 for a ‘Yappy Christmas’ dog bandana. There will be a Santa Zoom call at 10am on the Sunday, but participants are welcome to Dash at a time, or day that suits them.

We are facing a huge loss in income this year due to the impact COVID-19 has had on our fundraising activities. By taking part in events like the Santa Dash, you, the community can help your local Hospice to get through the most challenging time we have ever faced.