HUNDREDS of Father Christmases are set to flood the streets of Oxford to raise money for Helen and Douglas House and Help an Oxfordshire Child.

Oxford's first Santa Fun Run will take place on Sunday, December 2.

Jo Mitchell, head of fundraising for Helen and Douglas House, said: "Santa fun runs have been hugely successful for other hospices in the UK and we're hoping that the idea will catch on here to become an annual event in the Christmas calendar.

"We can't wait to see hundreds of jolly Santas of all shapes and sizes running through the streets of Oxford."

Entry to the two-mile event costs £10 per adult, £5 per child or £20 for a family and the run starts at 10am. Santa suits will be provided and medals will be presented to everyone who completes the course.

People taking part are asked to raise as much sponsorship as they can and adults who raise more than £100, or children who raise more than £50, will be entered in a prize draw with prizes including a flight in a helicopter for two, a family pass to Blenheim Palace and a family pass to Wychwood Brewery for a tour on how the beer is brewed.

To enter the fun run, see www.helenanddouglas.org.uk or www.foxfm.co.uk

A similar Santa run is being organised in Bicester on December 9 in aid of the mayor's chosen charities.