The Mayor of Walsall is getting into the festive spirit to help launch the build up to an annual fun run taking place in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice.

People are being urged to don Santa suits to join the race on December 7.

Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Mayor, joined Acorns’ youngster Connor Howells, 16, and fun runners as they geared up for the annual Santa’s On The Run event in Walsall Town Centre in aid of the hospice.

On Thursday a team of Santas took their heels in Walsall to run through a specially-arranged snowstorm to magic up interest in joining Santas on the Run.

Councillor Ansell urged everyone to get behind the event. He said: “It is certainly for a worthy cause. The more we can raise for the children before Christmas, the better.”

Santas on the Run is sponsored by Walsall-based Village hotel and leisure and partnered by Walsall Town Centre Management Partnership.

Kerrie Davies, events manager at Acorns, said: “Acorns’ Santas on the Run is a great event for friends and family. We are hoping hundreds of supporters will enter the fun run in Walsall.

“We would love to hear from any local businesses who can help sponsor the event, as well as from runners.”

People can walk or run the 1.5 km event. This year’s aim is for Santas on the Run to raise around £70,000 for the hospice. To register visit: www.acorns.org.uk/santa or call 0800 073 0001.