ENTRIES are being sought for a major fundraising event being staged in aid of a Hampshire hospice that needs support "more than ever".
Staff at the Oakhaven complex in Lymington have confirmed that this year's Santa Dash will take place in the town centre on Sunday, December 8.
It comes after Oakhaven and the Mountbatten Hospice in Southampton highlighted the cash crisis facing the sector.
Measures outlined in the Budget on October 30 will add more than £210,000 to Oakhaven's annual running costs from April.
As reported in the Daily Echo, increases in Employer National Insurance (NI) contributions, the NI band change, and a rise in the National Minimum Wage will result in bigger bills for Oakhaven and other hospices.
Mountbatten is reviewing its services, with chief executive Nigel Hartley asking: "Is this the beginning of the death of the modern hospice movement?"
Hospice UK says the sector is facing a collective deficit this year of £77m.
The Santa Dash will start and finish in Lymington High Street, outside the offices of the main sponsor, estate agents John D Wood & Co.
The festive fun run has raised more than £180,000 for Oakhaven since it was first held in 2009.
In a message to potential entrants, Laura Eastwood, director of fundraising at the hospice, said: "This year, we hope our Santa Dash will be bigger and better than ever.
"Oakhaven needs your support more than ever, whether you take part, sponsor a Santa Dasher, or come along to cheer on the Santas."
An Oakhaven spokesperson added: "The Santa Dash is fun opportunity to gather together with friends, family and colleagues to run, jog, walk, stroll, or even scoot around the streets of Lymington.
"Your ticket price includes a Santa suit, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
"Regular ‘Dashers’ are encouraged to wear any Santa suits they may have saved from previous years - and anyone who would prefer to dress as a different festive character is welcome to do so.
"Decorated pushchairs and buggies are welcome, as are mobility scooters. If you're bringing your dog, feel free to dress them up - but short leads are a must."
All the money raised will help fund Oakhaven’s day-to-day running costs, which last year totalled £8m.
Only 11 per cent of the annual bill is paid by the NHS. The rest of the cash comes from fundraising, donations, legacies left in wills, and income generated by Oakhaven's charity shops.
To take part in the Santa Dash, register at www.oakhavenhospice.co.uk/santa-dash
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