The Covid-19 crisis will not stop the fifth annual CHAS Santa Run

A children's charity is inviting supporters to don their Santa hats and trainers for a fundraiser.

Entrants are being sought for the fifth annual CHAS Aberdeen Santa Run which will take place over the weekend of 11 – 13 December.

The event, organised in partnership with Aberdeen Sports Village, will be held virtually this year because of coronavirus restrictions, meaning people from all areas across Scotland can sign up to take part.

Sponsored by Drummond Finance, the festive fundraiser is open to family members of all ages and abilities.

Entries cost £15 per adult, £10 per child and £30 per family of four. This includes a Santa hat and a special certificate of achievement, which will be posted to participants after the event.

CHAS community fundraiser, Emma Moore, said: “We are so proud to be launching our fifth annual CHAS Santa Run with Aberdeen Sports Village. Because of the ongoing pandemic the event can’t be held at the Sports Village this year but there are no restrictions on who can enter so all family members can get involved and because it’s a virtual event, people outside Aberdeen can also sign up.

“Now, more than ever, we rely on our fundraisers completing challenges such as this to help us continue our work keeping the joy alive for all the vulnerable children in our care across Scotland and their families. We hope to see many people signing up this year to join in the festive fun while helping to raise much needed funds.”

Kyle Greig from Aberdeen Sports Village, who personally raised almost £9,000 for CHAS following a 24 hour treadmill world record challenge, said: “We are thrilled to be launching the fifth annual Santa Run in partnership with CHAS.  We hope lots of people sign up to help raise as much funds as possible to help CHAS continue their important work supporting vulnerable children and families who need their help now, more than ever.”

Alex Drummond from Drummond Finance added: “We are delighted to be supporting this event which will help raise vital funds for CHAS. This amazing charity has faced huge challenges throughout the ongoing pandemic but continues to do the most amazing work supporting so many children and families across Scotland.”

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, CHAS, like many other charities has had to dramatically transform the way in which it operates.

While both Rachel House in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch are continuing to provide end of life care, the charity now also runs a virtual children’s hospice to support families who are having to completely self-isolate.

Through this service, families are offered extensive support by phone and video on important issues such as clinical guidance, financial advice and bereavement. CHAS family support teams also offer a range of interactive activities, art clubs, storytelling and friendship calls to children and parents.

To sign up for this year’s Santa Run visit:  https://www.entrycentral.com/abdnsantadash