ORGANISERS are calling out to find thousands of Santas 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, which is set to take place at Higginson Park in Marlow on Sunday, December 1.

Thousands of runners dressed in Santa outfits will take to the streets for the charity event, which is already proving popular. Almost 3,000 competitors took part in the race in 2023, which helped to raise over £72,000 for local causes.

Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022 (Image: Newsquest)

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

John Prout, Marlow Santa Fun Run organising committee chairman, said: "We are really excited about the 2024 event.

“Last year we know the near 3000 entrants collectively enabled over £72,000 to go to mainly local charities – we think we can go past £80,000 this year.

"Finally - by booking before 15th November - families and groups can avoid a substantial increase. It helps us if you book early – and it helps you!”

Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022 competitors warm up in Higginson ParkMarlow Santa Fun Run 2022 competitors warm up in Higginson Park (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking of the first event 20 years ago, Mr Prout said: "In 2004 our very first event attracted around 100 entries and each year we have grown and evolved.

"The Charity Pool was introduced in 2021 to incentivise teams to raise money for their own favourite charities - and with the help of key local organisations is set it at a record £15,000 this year.

"100% of this money goes to charities and CASCs chosen by entrants, and we encourage all local charities to think about entering a team. Last year a good number of Charities, PTAs and CASCs (Community Amateur Sports Clubs) entered teams – and some ended up with figures in excess of £4000 each."

Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022 (Image: Newsquest)

"Whilst rules do apply we quite simply want to give this money away!”.

For the sixth consecutive year, The Shanly Foundation has taken on the role of lead sponsor, a company which supports good causes from youth clubs, schools and woodland projects to centres for adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Local company Softcat is a core sponsor of the event for the third year running who, along with Clare Foundation, Heart of Bucks Foundation, and Grundon Waste Management, have enabled the 'Charity Pool' to be set at a record £15,000.

How to enter

Entries booked before Friday, November 15, will be charged at £20 per adult and £10 for young persons aged between 5 to 17. Under fives go free.

Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022Marlow Santa Fun Run 2022 (Image: Newsquest)

After Friday, November 15, the entry price is £25 per adult and £12.50 for each young person.

Those looking to enter can head to the Marlow Santa Fun Run website for more information.

Road closures

As with past years, major roads in Marlow will be affected while the fun run goes ahead. Access to the following roads will be limited during the fun run :

  • Marlow Bridge

  • High Street

  • Chapel Street

  • Glade Road 

  • Dedmere Road

  • Fieldhouse Lane

  • Lock Road

  • Mill Road

  • Station Road

  • Spittal Street 

  • Wiltshire Road

  • Parkway 

  • Fieldhouse Lane

  • Lock Road

  • Westhorpe Road

Details, including a map and list of sponsors, can also be seen on www.santasfunrun.org.