A RALLYING cry has gone out to find thousands of Santa's to sign up to this year's Marlow Santa Fun Run.

The Rotary Clubs of Marlow are calling on people to sign up to the popular annual event set to take place on Sunday, December 4.

The organisation said the 18th annual event is already proving popular with entries looking to exceed last year's 2,500 competitors that helped raise £47,000 for local causes.

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Runners are expected to gather all suited and booted in their Santa suits from 8am at Higginson Park, before setting off at 9.30am.

There are just days left for entrants to make the most of a £15 sign up fee for adults and £7.50 for ages five to 17. Earlybird entry offers are for bookings made before November 17, after this entries are £20 for adults and £10 for younger competitors. Under fives go free.

Money raised will go towards to Rotary Club's efforts to raise £60,000 for local charities.

Marlow Santa Fun Run organising committee chairman John Prout said: “We are really excited about the 2022 event.

"The Charity Pool created great interest last year and with the help of key local supporters we have been able to set it at £8,000 this year.

"All of this money goes to charities chosen by entrants, and we encourage all local charities to think about entering a team. Rules apply – and these can be seen on the website. Quite simply we want to give this money away!”

He added: “We have changed the pricing structure this year – and it is designed to encourage early entries.

"To be honest we struggle to cope with high numbers of late entries – and last year our entirely voluntary team were a little overwhelmed by the unusually large number of entries in the days leading up to the event.

"We have to make sure that everyone receives their kit – and with 3,000 entrants this can be very challenging. Hence the encouragement to book early.”

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This year the two lead charities are On Can Trust, that provides food supplies for those who are struggling to make ends meet, and Marlow United Charities which provides financial support to families who need it most.

All three Rotary Clubs in Marlow are involved in running the event. Marlow Rotary Club president Chris Kelsey said: "On Sunday, December 4, we want the course to be a sea of red Santas.

"We want to create a fantastic fun weekend that includes teams from local businesses, schools, churches, charities, scout and guide groups, families, neighbourhoods, clubs – all running or walking for a great cause. Come and join us."

Fore more details or to enter go to santasfunrun.org