Any parents trying to keep the myth of Father Christmas alive should probably keept the kids away from Hove Lawns this weekend as the second annual Santa Dash takes over the seafront.

Last year’s charity event saw more than 2,000 Santas run a rain-lashed 5km in aid of the Rockinghorse Appeal.

This year the red-suited runners will be raising cash for homeless charity Crisis, which offers help to more than 2,000 homeless and vulnerably housed people.

The route heads west up the Seafront Esplanade as far as Hove Lagoon, before the runners have to turn back and head for the start/finish line.

The event is part of a nationwide Santa dash, with all the entrants encouraged to raise a minimum of £20 in sponsorship. The £12 entry fee includes the Santa suit and a bespoke medal.

Youngsters are being catered for, too, with the organisers planning a 400m dash at 10.20am, just before the main race starts.

  • Starts 10.30am, £12 entry. Visit www.santadash.com/pages/brighton