After a challenging year, we want to spread the Christmas cheer and bring smiles to the faces of our children, young people and families. This is why, we're inviting you to don your Santa suits and join us for a very special virtual Santa Fun Run.

• When - complete your Santa Fun Fun any time in December 2020
• Where - the location, route and distance is up to you. Whether you want to set a route around your garden, in the local park or along the streets - all we ask, is that you wear your Santa suits and adhere to current social distancing guidelines
• How - we'd love to hear about our Santa runners walking, skipping, skating, riding or even sledging their route. The choices are endless and how you want to complete the distance is up to you - the wackier the better we think!
• Why - to help brighten short lives, here in the East Midlands

The when, where and how we've left to you - but in return, we'll send you your very own Santa suit to wear with pride as you complete your Santa Fun Run. And new for 2020, we're also holding a "Cutest Pooch" competition - helping you to get your four-legged friends involved in spreading the Christmas cheer too.

Whether your pooches opt to twinkle in tinsel, rock it like Rudolph with reindeer antlers or go stylish with one of our special dog bandanas, it's up to you. Please share your photos for the "Cutest Pooch" competition by emailing them to [email protected]. Emails must be received between 1 December and 31 December. The top 10 photos will be chosen and shared on our Facebook page for a public vote in January - with a special prize up for grabs.

Fundraising:

There is no requirement to fundraise but we would be very grateful for any amount you are able to raise. Rainbows only receives 15% of its funding from government bodies, so we rely on donations from people like you. Just £50 could fund a home visit from a Rainbows nurse, giving respite care to an isolated family. Each person who raises £50 will receive their very own Bow Bear soft toy as a thank you for their support.

Prices:*

• 14-years-old and over: £10
• 3 - 13-years-old: £5
• Doggy bandana: £2.50 (order yours via the merchandise page)
• Postage of suits: £6 (per parcel, five suits in a parcel). Postage will need to be selected before completing your registration**
  * Please note, once your entry has been confirmed, we are unable to offer refunds for the virtual Santa Fun Run
  **From Friday 18 December increased postage rates will apply for 1st Class post. In line with the Royal Mail last recommended posting dates we can’t guarantee delivery for Christmas. The last recommended posting date for 1st Class is Monday 21 December.  

With many of our events being cancelled this year, we really hope you join us virtually for what promises to be lots of festive fun for the whole family, at the same time as helping to raise funds to ensure children and young people living with life-limiting conditions in the East Midlands can continue to receive the vital care they need today, tomorrow and in the future.