MORE than 40 ambulance staff have donned their Santa suits to help launch the Colchester Santa Fun Run.

It will be the tenth consecutive year the event, which is organised by the Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity, has been held.

The event on Sunday, December 8 will take place in Colchester’s Castle Park with a 3km and 5km route. New for this year, there will also be a 10k route.

The run starts at 10am at the bandstand.

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of this event the charity is also including an interactive treasure hunt for children.

Community fundraising manager Angie Tillett said she is anticipating about 600 people to take part this year.

Angie said: “This is a fantastic, fun event in the lead-up to Christmas and is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

“Families, friends and work colleagues are all encouraged to take part.

“You don’t even have to run – you can jog, walk or stroll round the course if you prefer, or push a buggy.

“The Christmas Fair will be on in the high street that day so it’s a great day to be in town. Fun runners will also get £1 off food from the street vendors with presentation of their medal.”

Cheaper early bird entry fees are available until November 10 for people who register for the event.

After this entry for adults is £9, children for £6.75 and teams of ten or more can enter for £6.75 per person.

The fee includes a free Santa suit.

Adults are asked to raise a minimum of £30 each and children can raise as much as they can.

Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

On December 8 runners will be able to collect their Santa suits and Santa hats from near the bandstand between 9am and 9.59am. Call 01206 745303 or book online at colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk.