THE countdown to Christmas has now started for supporters of Julia's House as staff gear up for a Santa fun run and a festive party for youngsters.

Staff tried out their Father Christmas costumes for size as they helped prepare for the charity's first Santa run in Devizes on December 11.

Nurses, carers and fundraisers donned Santa suits to promote this fun festive event which will be raising money for Wiltshire’s first children’s hospice which will open in the town next spring.

The sponsored run sets off from Hillworth Park at 11am with a choice of two routes – 1.5km or 3km – making it ideal for all ages and abilities. Families, friends, colleagues are being encouraged to join in and show their support for local families with life-limited children.

Julias House offers frequent, regular breaks for parents struggling to care for a very sick child and its community care team are currently providing home-based respite for more than 30 families across the county.

Everyone who takes part will get a free Santa suit to wear on the run or there will be festive costumes for little helpers. Sign up online at juliashouse.org/santarun or call the Wiltshire fundraising office on 01980 677105.

The following weekend Julia's House supporter Elizabeth Frearson from Bishops Canning is organising a cracker of a party at Braeside, Bath Road, Devizes.

She said: "Families can get into the Christmas spirit with a wonderful party with everything children could wish for while raising money for Julia’s House."

The party on December 18 will run from 4pm to 8pm but people can turn up anytime during the slot and stay for as long as they wish.

She said: "Children can meet Father Christmas as he gets his sleigh ready for his big Christmas Eve journey and choose a name for his newest reindeer. Take a stroll through the magically lit gardens following the pantomime trail. Listen to a story round the bonfire.

"They can also play one of many fun Christmassy games such as the BFG’s hoopla or Elf Bowling and win lots of prizes. Meet Elsa, Anna and Olaf and be royally entertained in the Frozen disco or play on their bouncy castle or in their ball pond."

Entrance costs £5 per child with adults free.

If anyone would like to help out on the day or bake beforehand contact Mrs Frearson on 01380 860244 or elizabethfrearson@hotmail.co.uk