After a tough year people are being urged to have some festive fun and become a 'Silly Santa' this December - helping keep beds open at two hospices in the process.

As Cornwall Hospice Care is unable to hold its annual Santa Runs this year, due to coronavirus restrictions, it has come up with an alternative plan to help people still get into the spirit of giving.

Fundraiser Oli Hoare said: “We can’t hold our annual Santa Runs so we’re asking people to do their own thing for us.

“It’s really easy to take part. Come up with an idea like cycling 5km in your Santa suit, a TikTok dance off or even a festive bake off - whatever you want to do.

"Then, sign up on our website, wait for your outfit and sponsor form to arrive in the post, pull on the red hat, fasten the black belt and be a Silly Santa!”

The charity hopes people will take on their Silly Santa challenges at any time between December 1 and 24.

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“We already know of someone who’s going to do a sponsored walk with her huskies and of two horse riders who’re going to fundraise as Santas on Saddles," added Oli.

Ann’s Cottage Surf and Lifestyle Stores are once again sponsoring the Santa mayhem and the charity is asking schools to get involved too.

“We provide the outfits and schools provide the venue, it’s a win-win situation. Just think, every one of our Santas can rest easy knowing they’re on Santa's ‘nice’ list because they’ve helped keep our beds open at Mount Edgcumbe and St Julia’s Hospices," said Oli.

"Registration is open now and we can’t wait to see what ideas people come up with to fundraise in a festive way.”

To join the Silly Santa extravaganza go to www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk/SillySantas

All the money raised will go to Terry’s Bed Appeal to help keep beds open at our two hospices.

People can share their videos and photos with the charity on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtags #SillySantas and #TeamSanta.

Notes to editors:

Please find attached a picture of two Silly Santas on Cycles and the very jolly Silly