Santa dash returns to raise vital funds this Christmas

It wouldn’t be Christmas without Thames Hospice’s much-loved Santa Dash which takes place this year on Sunday 4 December at 10am.

The Hospice is calling on its community to sign up to Berkshire’s favourite festive event, join a sea of hundreds of Santas to walk or run around the enchanting Swinley Forest in Bracknell and get into the festive spirit, all whilst supporting a wonderful cause this Christmas.

The Hospice’s Santa Dash is a family (and pet!) friendly event open to all ages and abilities. Dashers can choose to walk or run a 2k or 5k route, or a longer 10k running route and enjoy a fun-filled morning of music, entertainment, festive treats and refreshments for all the family. Registration is open now, sign up online.

Sponsorship

All fundraising makes a huge difference to patients and their families this Christmas and beyond. The Cleverley family is taking part this year and hope to raise over £1,000. Claire along with her daughters 13-year-old Chloe and 10-year-old Ruby will be walking the 5k route, to say thank you for the support their family are receiving as the Hospice cares for their husband and dad Alan.

Alan was referred to Thames Hospice for palliative care, after being diagnosed with a brain tumour last Christmas. Claire says: “The Santa Dash is just our way of saying ‘thank you’ for everything the Hospice has done for our family. I couldn't have got through this without them, the care and support has been amazing. Not only to Alan, but to me and the girls (Chloe and Ruby) too.

“Everyone is so supportive and caring, it feels like a family. From the moment Alan came to the Hospice we noticed a big difference, he has been looked after so well which I could no longer do at home.

“I don’t think Alan would have been here today if it wasn’t for the Hospice.”

Everyone who signs up to the charity’s Santa Dash will help Thames Hospice give the very best of care to those patients and their loved ones facing their last Christmas together.

Claire Redrup, Head of Community & Event Fundraising, said: “This is an extra special year for our Santa Dash as we are also celebrating our 35^th Christmas of outstanding care. We are so excited to kick off the festive season and get together with our community to celebrate with our festive fun run. Everyone is welcome to take part!

“We are so grateful for our supporters and every penny raised will help us continue to provide compassionate end-of-life and palliative care to patients and families who need us the most.”