IT might feel too early to think about Christmas but participants are already being sought for a Santa fun run in Cirencester in December.

Cirencester charity The Churn Project is looking for people to put on their best Santa or festive costumes and running shoes for a 5k run through the Abbey Grounds.

The event follows the charity’s first Santa Fun Run in 2023.

Taking place at 10.30am on Sunday, December 1, the run is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, according to The Churn Project.

Those who get involved will be helping to raise money to support those most isolated, lonely or in need at Christmas.

There will also be a 1k route around the park for younger families to take part in.

Sarah Bourne, chief executive of The Churn Project, said: “After the success of our inaugural Santa Fun Run last year, we are very excited to see if we can get more people to spread some festive joy and raise funds for us.

“Christmas can be a tough time for those people in our community who are isolated, lonely or in crisis.

“Joining in our Santa Fun Run will give vital funds towards the work we do all year round.

“There’ll be lots going on to enjoy, so we would love you to make the Santa run your first outing of the Christmas season.”

The Churn Project supports people across the community in Cirencester and nearby villages, focusing on those who are vulnerable and marginalised.

Its goals are to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing for local people, particularly for those who are lonely, at a point of transition or crisis in their lives or experiencing mental health issues.

The charity directly supports over 1,900 people each year, focusing on vulnerable families, older people and individuals who are unemployed.

Entry to the run costs £6 per person running the 5k course and £6 per family participating in the 1k course (up to two adults are permitted plus any children).

Both the 1k and 5k runs will start at 10.30am, with a fun warm-up session beforehand for participants to get motivated.

To register, go to thechurnprojectsantafunrun.eventbrite.co.uk or email events@thechurn.org.uk

If you would like to sponsor the event as a local business, get in touch with The Churn Project via events@thechurn.org.uk