HUNDREDS of Santas will take to the streets to raise money for people with leukaemia during this year’s Santathon.

The popular fund-raiser is scheduled to take place at Worcester racecourse on Sunday, December 2, in aid of city-based national charity Leukaemia CARE.

As many as 500 Santas could take part in the 5km fun run which is open to everyone, whatever their age or ability, with suits provided. Participants are also welcome to dress up their pets.

People can either run or walk the course and Leukaemia CARE has been working hard to publicise the event by taking their mascot, Bertie Bloodcell, into the University of Worcester, the College of Technology and the city centre.

Rachel Conway, fund-raising officer at Leukaemia CARE, said: The Bertie days have gone really well, everyone’s responded really well to meeting Bertie and we’ve managed to reach a wider audience than we would have beforehand.

“People enjoy coming over and talking to us about the charity.

“The day promises some fantastic prizes for highest fundraisers and best Santas, including tickets to the West Midland Safari Park and Worcester Warriors tickets.”

Leukaemia CARE is a Worcester-based national charity, and supports anyone affected by a blood or lymphatic cancer through diagnosis and treatment.

Leukaemia CARE provides a free, 24-hour telephone line enabling patients and their families to discuss their feelings and concerns at such a difficult period of time.

To sign up call 01905 755977 or visit leukaemiacare.

org.uk.