RUNNERS of all ages are invited to don a Santa costume for a festive charity run next month.

Registration for the annual Butterwick Hospice Santa Run at Hardwick Country Park, near Sedgefield County Durham, is now open.

The event, which takes place on Sunday, December 2, was a big success last year, with scores of families, school children, toddlers and dogs joining hardened sprinters for the 2.6-mile race.

Times ranged from 19 minutes to 52 minutes and competitors can choose whether to run, walk or stroll around the course.

Registration is £10.50 for adults and includes free parking and a complete “one size fits all” Santa suit.

Children under 14 can enter for £5 and will receive a Santa hat.

Members of Sedgefield Harriers will be on duty to encourage and supervise the entire route and all proceeds will go to the Butterwick Hospice at Bishop Auckland.

The closing date for registrations is November 30.

Application forms are available by contacting Beryl Anderson on beryl.anderson@durham.gov.uk or Butterwick Hospice on 01388-603003.