Photo: Stefan Schiefer
Festive fitness and community spirit will take centre stage on Sunday 7 December as the Run Eat Sleep Christmas Fun Run returns to South Shields in support of Key to Life Foodbank.
Residents are invited to throw on their most joyful Christmas outfits, lace up their trainers and head to The Dragon (Bents Park Recreation Ground) for a morning packed with fresh air, festive cheer and fundraising for local people in need.
The event begins at 9am, with registration from 8.30am, and remains one of the most popular fixtures in South Tyneside’s seasonal celebrations.
Two routes are on offer:
- a 1km course designed for families, children and anyone new to running
- the classic 5km route for more experienced participants
Whether you prefer to run, walk, jog or push a buggy, everyone is welcome and Christmas costumes are absolutely encouraged. From sparkly elves to cosy Christmas jumpers, the more festive the better. Dogs on short leads can also join in the fun.
Instead of a traditional entry fee, participants are asked to bring along a donation for Key to Life Foodbank, which continues to face high demand from families across South Tyneside.
Items the foodbank urgently needs include:
- Cereal and long-life milk
- Tinned fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, soup and spaghetti
- Tinned custard and rice pudding
- Instant snack meals
- Pasta and curry sauces
- Bottled juice
- Festive treats and confectionery
- Toothpaste, toilet rolls and shower gel
- Baby essentials
- Washing powder and household cleaning products
All donations can be handed in at the Run Eat Sleep registration tables on The Dragon. Parking is available along Bents Park Road.
Anyone who prefers to make a financial contribution can do so on the day or donate directly to Key to Life online, by text, cheque or BACS. Full details are available via the charity’s website: keycommunity.org.uk
Luke Adams, founder of Run Eat Sleep South Shields, said:
“We love seeing the community come together for this event. It’s a wonderful, energetic way to start December and a terrific opportunity to support a charity that makes an enormous difference locally.”
Jo Benham Brown, Business Development and Communities Manager at Key, said:
“The Christmas Fun Run always brings such joy. Watching crowds of people arrive in their festive finery, all supporting their neighbours, is truly uplifting. We’re immensely grateful for the generosity shown at such a crucial time of year.”
For any enquiries about the Christmas Fun Run, please contact luke@runeatsleep.co.uk