RED-HOODED wannabes have less than six weeks to sign up to take part in this year's Swindon Santa Run in aid of the Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix.

This Christmas will see the fourth instalment of the run at Lydiard Park, which this year is set for December 6.

Organisers are looking for runners to strap on the black boots and swelter their way through the West Swindon park in red suits.

The event will kick off at 11am after a 15 minute Zumba warm-up, and there will also be a performance from around 60 singers of the Wootton Bassett and Wroughton Rock Choir led by Kate Benson, as well as hot food and drinks available from Crunch Catering.

Paul Parfrey, Santa Run lead co-coordinator, said: "We now have 91 entries of the 500 places available, compared to October 2014 when we had 22 sign up out of the total 421 on the day.

"It certainly looks like the two charities to benefit from this event, the Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Breast Cancer Now are going to be well supported.

"On arrival at Lydiard on the hopefully crisp Sunday winter morning, adult entries will be given a full Santa suit, youth entries also get a Santa suit and the children and toddlers get a Santa hat.

"Everyone who takes part will get a Santa medal when they cross the finish line to take home and hang up with pride, or maybe add it to the collection if you have entered the Swindon Santa Run at Lydiard Park since its inaugural event in December 2012.

"The family dog is also welcome as long as its on a lead at all time and Santa will be there with his sleigh for those family photo opportunities. One of Santa's Elves had informed me that Morrisons Stores are now selling Santa Suits for your dog for £5. How good would that look if you want to bring your dog."

The main course is five kilometres long although a shorter route will also be available.

Paul said: "All proceeds from the application fees will be split 50/50 between the two charities and everyone who takes part can raise sponsorship if they wish for either charity or both."

If you are interested in taking part email rtn.paul.parfrey@gmail.com, call 07929 725708 or visit swindonphoenixrotary.org.