BARNSLEY Hospice have announced the return of their popular festive fundraiser.

This winter, the hospice’s ‘Elf Run’ invites local schools, businesses and communities to take to fitness to have some fundraising fun.

The fundraiser is possible thanks to the support of White’s Bakery, the campaign’s sponsor for the fifth consecutive year.

All ages are encouraged to participate as the event can be tailored to different abilities.

A community of over 10,000 ‘elves’ took part last year, raising an incredible £37,000 to support their local hospice.

To enter, register your group’s interest on the Barnsley Hospice website, picking a date, distance and route.

Then, simply complete your run and collect sponsorship and donations.

The hospice even provides a free elf hat to any participants.

Community relationships manager at Barnsley Hospice, Vicky Stead, said: “We were thrilled to have a record-breaking 10,000 elves take part last year.

“We’re hoping to have even more people join in the fun this year.

“While we’ve had amazing support from local schools over the years, we’d love for more businesses and groups around town to get involved.

“We must raise around £3.5m every year to sustain our services and the support of events like Elf Run plays a huge part in this.”