Sign up for festive dash in Birchwood

And organisers hope the fifth annual Brainwave Christmas run through Birchwood Forest on December 7 will raise much-needed funds for the charity. The money will help with the cost of running the Brainwave Centre at Birchwood.

"The Santa dash is a wonderful Christmas run or walk through Birchwood Forest Park, a great multiple terrain course, which is great for all seasonal weather," said Joanne Freeman, Brainwave north west community fundraising manager.

Brainwave helps families across the north west, including Warrington, who have children with disabilities and other special needs.

Sophia Holmes' family is one of those that rely on help from Brainwave.

Sophia is 20 months old and lives in Appleton. She has Downs Syndrome.

She and her mum, Claudia were at Birchwood Shopping Centre this week for the run's launch. They wanted to stress how vital Brainwave's work is.

"Sophia, is learning and making great progress, thanks to the advice and the time Brainwave therapists have to spend with her. Please sign up for the dash and support the centre, which makes a real difference to disabled children," said Claudia.

Each year the charity receives huge support from Birchwood Lions, the Peacock pub and Asda Birchwood to organise the run. Last year they raised £5,000, bringing the total in four years to £30,000.

"Huge thanks to our sponsor, Birchwood Shopping Centre, and the team," said Joanne.

Gary Jones, manager of Birchwood Shopping Centre, said ''Once again we are extremely pleased to be hosting and supporting the Brainwave Santa Dash. Now in its fifth year, the event has become a traditional event that is well supported by the local community and beyond, while raising funds for a charity that continues to do amazing work in helping children and their families.

"It is a great event, run over a lovely course, in a relaxed and fun environment.''

For details about the 5k run and how to enter, call 07872 411 580 or log on to brainwave.org.uk/north-west-santa-dash.