Worcestershire CCC players and staff will be donning their running shoes on Monday in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice for the second time in 2020 when taking part in Santa’s Star Dash.
Club Captain Joe Leach will be amongst 18 Worcestershire CCC participants who will wear Santa suits when taking part in the local charity’s famous festive fundraiser.
It follows on from the County’s virtual ‘Rapids Relay’ in May which raised more than £15,000 for the Hospice after players and officials ran more than 1,000 kilometres in seven 12-hour sessions.
The Worcestershire squad and officials are also regular visitors to Acorns Children’s Hospice at Christmas although the impact of COVID-19 prevents that happening in 2020.
Santa’s Star Dash runs from December 1 to 14, and any member of the public can enter to run, walk or jog their own 1km, 5km or 12km routes which can be completed in one go or over several days.
Joe Leach said: “It’s great to be getting involved again with Acorns to help raise awareness and funds for what is a brilliant cause.
“The players and some of the coaching staff are looking forward to pulling on their Santa suits next week and get running again.”
Santa’s Star Dash aims to clock up enough kilometres (4,173) to return the North Star to the North Pole so it can guide Santa as he delivers his presents on Christmas Eve.
Participants who raise £10 will receive a Santa outfit with elf costumes for little ones, a medal, and a certificate from Santa himself.
Acorns are delighted that Worcestershire CCC are playing a different part in helping to raise funds via the Santa’s Star Dash.
Kate McMahon, Events Coordinator at Acorns, said: “We’re thrilled to have Worcestershire County Cricket Club onboard for Santa’s Star Dash and we hope County fans will join them and get behind this festive fundraiser by completing their dashes.
“It was lovely to welcome players to our Hospice in Worcester last December. Sadly, Covid-19 means we can’t do the same this year.
“But, by taking part in Santa’s Star Dash, the Club is still spreading festive cheer by supporting local children and families.”
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, as well as support for their families.
The charity has been at the forefront in the battle against coronavirus, supporting some of the most vulnerable families as well as the wider emergency response of the NHS and social care system.
It costs £27,000 every day to run Acorns services providing care for children and support for their families. The charity relies heavily on donations to fund the majority of its activities.
To sign up to Santa’s Star Dash or for more information, please visit www.acorns.org.uk/santastardash
