MOLD Town Council is hoping to spread some festive cheer by hosting a virtual Santa Dash.

Due to ongoing Covid-19 regulations, the annual event in Mold cannot be held in the same format as previous years, with organisers now asking residents to take part in their ‘Virtual Mold Santa Dash’ this year.

Now in its fifth year, the event normally attracts over 400 dashing Santa’s of all ages and abilities taking part, which turns the streets of Mold red as they run around the 1.4 mile circular route.

Residents are being encouraged to carry out their own 1.4 mile Santa Dash between December 6-13, either on their own, with their household or with their ‘bubble’.

Participants are asked to either run, walk, hop, skip or jump around their own garden, on a treadmill or around the local area but however they complete the dash, they are asked to have fun and send their ‘dashing’ photos and videos into Mold Town Council to share on social media.

As in previous years, proceeds raised from the entrance fee of this event will go to the Mayor’s fundraising appeal, ‘Save a Life, Make a Difference', which supports local charities and organisations.

Jane Evans, events and community engagement officer for the council, said: "I had quite a lot of interest in this virtual event when I contacted our past entrants a couple of months ago to see if they would be interested in taking part this year.

"The response from most was an astounding yes.

"I think people are looking forward to getting out into the fresh air and having a bit of fun, it’s been a long year so far."

The Mayor, cllr Teresa Carberry, hopes that the virtual event will provide a festive boost to her appeal, which has suffered this year due to the cancellation of events.

Ms Evans added: "The money raised by the charity appeal makes such a difference to local charities and groups that the Mayor’s support, with funds being much needed this year.

"This year the Mayor’s chosen charities are Blood Bike Wales and Flintshire Foodbank, two very worthy charities that help and support residents of Mold."

This year entrance fee for Mold’s Virtual Santa Dash has been reduced as the main event is not taking place and organisers are asking for a minimum donation of £5 per person for those aged 12 years and over.

Entrance fee includes a one size (adult) Santa Suit with no reduction on entrance fee if participants choose to wear your own.

Entry for children under the age of 12 remains free of charge, however should they wish to purchase an adult Santa Suit (£5 minimum donation), they could wear the Santa jacket, hat and beard or alternatively children can wear their own festive outfit.

All those taking part will receive a medal and a certificate.

To request an entrance form, contact events@moldtowncouncil.org.uk or call 01352 758532.

Or you can download the entrance form from via www.moldtowncouncil.org.uk/Mold-TC/Santa_Dash__11781.aspx.

For further information, contact Jane Evans via events@moldtowncouncil.org.uk.