An open-topped bus was packed with early festive cheer as a group of Father Christmas lookalikes toured the city to launch this year’s Liverpool Santa Dash.
The event, which is the UK’s biggest festive fun run, kicked off in true Christmas spirit with some familiar faces coming out to support the launch on Wednesday.
The Thomas brothers – Ryan who stars in Coronation Street, Adam from Emmerdale and Scott from reality dating series Love Island – were all present, along with Liverpool actors Philip Olivier and Kurtis Stacey.
The stars were joined by representatives from some of the local charities that the BTR Santa Dash raises money for, such as Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, Everton in the Community and Radio City’s Cash for Kids.
The group of Santas met at Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, where the annual dash will start on Canada Boulevard. Held in association with Blue Air, the event promises a day of festive fun as well as raising money for good causes.
YouTube: BTR Liverpool
Former Brookside star Olivier said: “It’s been a while since I’ve done the Liverpool Santa Dash, so I thought it was time to get back out there. It’s time to pull out that red suit again and dash round this fantastic city – it’s definitely the best way to kick-start Christmas.
“It’s a brilliant event for all the family with the Santas raising thousands of pounds for charity.”
Organisers BTR are encouraging would-be Santas to sign up as soon as possible to make this year’s dash bigger and better than ever in a bid to win back the fun run world title from Las Vegas.
BTR Liverpool Race Director, Alan Rothwell, said: “It really is a festive spectacular with the city being transformed into a sea of red, blue and mini Santas. It’s a spectacular sight and a real highlight in the BTR event calendar.”
The dash will start at 9.30am on Sunday December 4th, with Santas departing from the Pier Head before making their way across the city towards the finish line at Liverpool Town Hall.
Red suit registration costs £23, with blue suits costing £25 and the mini dash is £11. Santa suit collection is available from Rapid Discount Outlet from November 1st to December 3rd.
To enter online visit: www.btrliverpool.com