HUNDREDS of people dressed as Father Christmas will race around Worcester City Football Club this weekend.

The annual Santathon, in aid of Worcester-based charity Leukaemia CARE is taking place at the St George’s Lane ground on Sunday.

The 5km (3.1 mile) fun run will start at 11am and everyone taking part will be raising money for people affected by Leukaemia.

XXX have entered so far, but there is still time to apply.

Little Ben Price, aged two, will ride around the course dressed as an elf. He will be on a home-made sleigh pulled by his boxer dog Winston, who will be dressed as a reindeer.

The brave youngster, of Cornmeadow Lane, Claines, near Worcester, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year and had support from Leukaemia CARE. Although he is in remission and much better, Ben still attends hospital for regular check-ups and takes stabilising drugs.

Proud mum Emma, who will be by his side during the fun run, has urged others to take part in Sunday’s fund-raiser.

She said: “I hope people will support this wonderful charity. To have them here in Worcester is brilliant and to know there is always someone to talk to is a huge help.”

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is cancer of the white blood cells. Children under 15 are the most commonly affected and treatments include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and steroid therapy.

Money raised during the fun run will help the charity continue to provide care and support to patients, their families and carers during the treatment of leukaemia, lymphoma or an allied blood disorder.

People who want to take part can download a form from xmasfunrun.co.uk or order one from 08455 213456.

All participants pay a £10 registration fee and receive a free Santa suit.