A CHILDREN'S charity is kicking off the Christmas period with the return of a festive fundraiser.

Children's Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT) is running its annual Santa Dash event next weekend.

A Santa Dash involves a group of people dressed as Father Christmas, typically completing a sponsored run, walk, or cycle.

Warrington Guardian: There are three different cycling routes on this year's Santa DashThere are three different cycling routes on this year's Santa Dash (Image: CAFT)

CAFT is based on Reddy Lane, just past Lymm, and focuses on helping children with disabilities to experience fun activity days in a loving, safe environment.

The Santa Dash this year will be a cycling event, with three different circuits being used in the festive fundraiser, for those of different abilities.

There will be a 10.5-mile route - for families - a 32-mile 'moderate' route, and a 60-mile 'tougher' route, too.

Each of these routes will begin at different times on Sunday, December 11, and will start at Altrincham FC's J. Davidson Stadium, on Moss Lane.

This year's CAFT Santa Dash also includes two circular walking routes for participants who do not want to cycle - one being five miles long, and the other being 9.5 miles long.

All of the routes will pass the Children’s Adventure Farm where participants will be able to warm up with a hot beverage and a mince pie, before putting on the Santa costume for the last leg of the journey back into Altrincham.

The charity said: "Cycling Santas will be welcomed by the 'real' man in red who will award them with a finisher's medal before a hearty lunch - hot pot with all the trimmings, and hot dogs - there will also be an after party with lots of fun activities there for your friends and family to enjoy."

Warrington Guardian: A Santa costume is included upon entry to the dashA Santa costume is included upon entry to the dash (Image: CAFT)

This comes as the charity announces its Christmas campaign to help 3,000 children across the North West make special memories this year at the Adventure Farm.

CAFT is reliant on donations from individuals and businesses in the area, and has been supported for three decades since it was established in 1992.

For more information on the Children's Aventure Farm Trust's annual Santa Dash event, visit the CAFT website, where you can sign up or donate to the event.