Rainbows and Derby & Burton Hospitals Charites join forces for festive run

More than 1,000 Father Christmases will descend on Markeaton Park on Sunday (1) for the biggest Santa Run Derby has ever seen.

We have partnered with Derby & Burton Hospitals Charites Jingle Jog to spread the Christmas cheer and are calling for good girls, boys and dogs to join in with the festive fun. 

Our Santa Run was due to take place at Elvaston Castle but due to ‘Elf’ and Safety reasons arising from a water logged site, the charities have teamed up together to create the huge event at Markeaton Park. 

Event organiser Nancy Lillington said: “Unfortunately the weather has not been kind this year and the car park at Elvaston Castle is water logged but we are delighted to be partnering with Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity Jingle Jog to create a huge and fun event for the people of Derbyshire. 

“Whether you want to hop, skip, dance or run around the route you’re guaranteed to get into the Christmas spirit, spread joy and help raise funds for the charities. You will be provided with a Santa suit and will also receive a finishers medal and goody bag once you’ve crossed the finish line.

“To help make the event ‘pawsome’ for the four-legged friends taking part, there’s also the opportunity to purchase a festive dog bandanna from Rainbows when booking – because we wouldn’t want the pooches to feel left out.

“We know this will be a really fun event and both charities are always so well supported by the Derbyshire community, so we can’t thank people enough. We look forward to seeing you on the day.”

To complement the event, the park’s Craft Village will be decorated with Christmas lights and a tree and the units will be open for shopping. There will also be other festive activities taking place. 

Marie Gretton, Communications Officer for Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, said: “We are proud to be able to support another local charity in the face of the current adverse weather. It is important for local communities to rally around each other in times like these. We hope that everyone has a brilliant day and helps us celebrate these two excellent charities.”

The 5km event starts at 11am with a warm up at 10.45am. Participants can register from 9am. 

For more information, visit rainbows.co.uk/santa2019