GRAB your white beard and mince pie belly, because the countdown to Thames Hospice's annual Santa Dash is on.

The dash through Bracknell's Swinley Forest takes place each year in order to raise money to support the hospice's work caring for people with life-limiting illnesses.

Registration is now open for the event with entries for either the five km or ten km run through the forest on Sunday, November 27.

People who enter before September 30 will be able to register for a discounted fee of £15 and one child goes free for every adult.  Alison Evans, head of community, events and corporate fundraising, said: “We are really excited to be launching the Santa Dash 2016 and hope to make it even bigger and better this year! You’ll discover plenty of Christmas comradery whatever route you choose and know that everything you raise through sponsorship and entry fees will go directly to caring for local people this Christmas and beyond. We look forward to having some festive fun with everyone.”

The event kicks off at 10am and is open to people of all ages and abilities and dogs are welcome. You can enter as an individual or as a team, after September 30 normal registration fees apply: £20 for adults and £5 for children – under-fives go free.  All registered adults will receive a Santa suit and children get reindeer antlers and flashing noses.  To sign up, visit www.thameshospice.org.uk/santadash or call 01753 842121.