NAOMI House & Jacksplace is encouraging Dorset residents to take part in their now virtual Santa Fun Run later this year.

The festive event traditionally sees hundreds of Santas running through the streets of Winchester, but due to the pandemic and the latest lockdown restrictions, this can no longer take place.

The charity has taken matters into its own hands and participants are being encouraged to take part virtually in their local areas, keeping within government guidelines.

Events Fundraiser at Naomi House & Jacksplace, Charlotte Patrick said: "Although we’re really disappointed that our normal event can’t take place in Winchester, we’re so excited to be able to encourage people to join in the fun in their local areas.

"Even though everyone has to be mindful of government guidelines due to the pandemic, they can still have loads of fun and laughs, whilst supporting local children and young adults with serious illnesses."

The Fun Run is for Santas of all ages and participants need to gather their household team, choose a location and a date sometime in December, and register.

Charlotte added: "This event is for all ages and we can’t wait to see the photos of everyone dressed up in their Santa suits – mums, dads, children, grandparents, work colleagues."

Once registered, participants will be sent a jolly red Santa suit, complete with fluffy white beard.

Santas can walk, skip, jump or dance along their 5k route and if they raise a minimum of £25 towards the work of Naomi House & Jacksplace, the charity will present them with a medal to celebrate their achievement.

Participants will be supporting Naomi House & Jacksplace hospices at a time when the charity’s fundraising has been severely affected by the pandemic.

Their charity shops have been forced to close and the majority of fundraising events have been cancelled.

Despite the new lockdown measures, the charity remains open, staffed 24 hours a day, for families who are struggling, including those who need expert care in an emergency, following a hospital stay or at the end of a child’s life.

To register for the virtual Santa Fun Run and take part in the festive fun, visit naomihouse.org.uk/santa