Dashing Santas set to return to capital's streets

Similar events are held across the UK each year in December

Hundreds of festively dressed runners are set to return to the streets of the Isle of Man's capital next month in the annual charity Santa Dash.

The fun run sees competitors don outfits including Santa suits and reindeer and elf costumes to complete a 1-mile (1.6km) run through the centre of Douglas.

Marking its 23rd year in 2024, the run will start at 12:30 GMT on 18 December on Prospect Hill outside the Isle of Man Bank, which organises the event.

Last year’s dash broke the attendance record with 401 runners taking part.

The annual Santa-themed run is a popular event in the Manx festive calendar

Participants in the run either pick their own charities to raise money for, or choose from a list of charities provided by the organiser.

Prizes are awarded to the winners of the race as well as the best dressed Santas and teams.

Event organisers said while timing chips were used to determine finishing places in the race and to make registration easier, it was still "very much a charity fundraiser".

“Whilst some Santas do have an element of competition between themselves, the focus really is on having some fun and raising money for local charities," organisers added.