A five-mile charity run will see Santas, elves and festive figures run along Southend Promenade on December 10.

The Southend Rudolph Run is open to experienced runners and beginners and is set to raise funds for Havens Hospices. Caring for babies, children and young people, the specialist hospice team looks after the whole family throughout illness, death and bereavement, putting wellbeing at the centre of their support.

Organisers have encouraged runners to turn up dressed in appropriately festive costumes, “to make Santa really proud”.

In a statement, they said: “By signing up for the Southend Rudolph Run, you'll be helping provide nursing care, creating friendships, understanding and a place to belong.

“By asking family and friends for sponsorship towards the cause, you’ll be making even more of a difference to families across the county.”

The course comprises a single loop around the country park followed by an out and back section along the promenade.

Dubbed “Race HQ”, the starting and finishing point will be located on the promenade, adjacent to Ness Road on the Esplanade. There is parking available adjacent to it and along the promenade. The closest railway station is Thorpe Bay which is around one mile from Race HQ.