Your ‘presents’ is requested by Father Christmas to take part in a festive fundraising event to kickstart Christmas by signing up for a free virtual extravaganza in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice.

By signing up to the virtual Santa Dash, you’ll be supporting the charity to deliver the best gift this Christmas – the gift of care.

Father Christmas needs your help to raise vital funds towards the Acorns specialist hospice care this Christmas for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

The event, which is taking place from 1 to 14 December, will see fundraisers choose their own 1, 5 or 12km routes in the location of their choice. Participants who raise just £10, will receive a fundraising pack, Santa suit or Christmas sack for children, medal and a certificate from the man himself! Kirsty Murray, Acorns Events Coordinator, said:

“We are all very excited at Acorns to be bringing our Santa Dash back again this year. We are looking for lots of festive fundraisers to kickstart Christmas by signing up for Acorns Virtual Santa Dash.

“There’s something for everyone and you can complete it in one go or over several days. So, get ready to run, walk, skip, hop or jingle all the way in support of local children and families this Christmas.”

Those who sign up are urged to set up a fundraising page and join Acorns exclusive Facebook group which will build excitement ahead of the event with challenges and competitions. Kirsty added:

“Yule be sorry to miss this free event. It’s not only a whole lot of festive fun, but all the money raised will make a real difference to the children and families who need us all year round.

“Your sponsorship will help us be there for families who need us - which truly is the greatest gift. We ho-ho-hope you can join us and make this Christmas extra special!”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for life limited and life threatened children and support for their families from its three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community. In the past year the charity has cared for more than 700 children and almost 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

It cost Acorns £27,000 per day to provides its lifeline care and support, the bulk of which comes from fundraising and donations. To sign up to Acorns Virtual Santa Dash or for more information, please visit acorns.org.uk.