Wolverhampton's public health champion is encouraging residents to enjoy some pre Christmas exercise by taking part in a festive fun run at West Park this week.

Type=image;ImageID=11353;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Santas ready to take part in the charity run;TitleClass=strong;

Type=image;ImageID=11354;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Charity run at West Park;TitleClass=strong;

Sight loss charities the Beacon Centre and RNIB are joining forces to hold their inaugural Santa Run in the park on Sunday (4 December).

Participants can run, walk or jog around the 5km course, wearing Santa suits which will be provided by the charities and which entrants are able to keep at the end. Children are also invited to take part, by completing a 1 mile lap of the park in the company of an adult. They will receive a Santa hat to keep.

Among those taking part will be Councillor Paul Sweet, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing. He will be joining members of the council's Economic Inclusion team for the fundraiser, and said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy a pre Christmas workout while also supporting 2 very worthwhile causes at the same time.

"The Santa Run is open to everyone, and it doesn't matter if you run, jog or walk - it's the taking part that counts."

Also taking part will be Beacon Centre chief executive Arwyn Jones who said: "The Santa Run is a great way to spend time with your loved ones during this special time of year while raising money for 2 charities that help those with sight loss."

The Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Barry Findlay will set the runners on their way at 10.30am and entry costs £10 for adults and £5 for children, which includes a Santa suit for adults and hat for children. All proceeds will go to the Beacon Centre and RNIB.

To book places, please visit Type=links;Linkid=7783;Title=Beacon Vision;Target=_blank;.

  • released: Monday 28 November, 2016