Chester Santa Dash returns to city centre again this year

Festive spirit will fill the streets of Chester once again, as the city's beloved Santa Dash event returns on Sunday 1st December for its 14th year.

The popular annual fundraising event, which has raised over £500,000 in aid of The Countess Charity and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, sees participants of all ages invited to don Santa suits and complete a 3.2k route through Chester city centre. 

Generously sponsored by Medicash, this year's event will start at the Riverside Innovation Centre by the River Dee and finish on Bridge Street, passing several of Chester's most iconic landmarks along the way.  

Tickets are £25 per person, with free entry for children under five, and each participant receives a Santa suit and are encouraged to raise sponsorship for taking part. 

All proceeds will go to The Countess Charity – which provides vital funding to enhance the work of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, two vital local charities providing an essential role in the health and wellbeing of the local community of West Cheshire, helping families through some of their most challenging moments. 

Nicola Stubbs Corporate and Events Fundraiser at the Countess of Chester Hospital, said: 

“Last year, £40,000 was raised from the Santa Dash, and our half went towards the Blue Skies Balcony Appeal for a new outdoor balcony for patients in the Intensive Care Unit to be wheeled onto to aid their recovery or ease their pain.

“Work began earlier this month to build the balcony, which will make a huge positive impact on so many patients.  

“We know times are hard but this really is a fun and family-friendly community event that does so much good and we’d encourage anyone who wants to take part to get in touch now to book their slot.” 

"We are so grateful to Medicash for sponsoring this event and once again making it possible.” 

Justin Caroe, Head of Fundraising at the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, added: 

“With over 1700 participants already registered, the Santa Dash promises to be a fantastic day out. 

“It’s not too late to join us and raise sponsorship for our two wonderful charities whist filling the streets of Chester with some festive cheer.” 

You can sign up for the Santa Dash here: 

www.chestersantadash.com 

Picture Credit - John Tudor.