The annual spectacle of hundreds of Santa Clauses running through Monmouth is nearly here again.

Preparations are well underway for the sixth Monmouth Santa Fun Run. The festive family event starts on the Monnow Bridge on Sunday 1st December.

"The Santa Fun Run is a great way for fun-runners and families to enjoy a race together regardless of age or ability," said race director Jeremy Creasey.

"We now think of it as an established part of the build-up to Christmas in the town."

Proceeds from the run this year are supporting both the local charity TASCS, which supports the carers of individuals with autism, and also the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Organised by the Spirit of Monmouth Running Club, the Monmouth Santa Fun Run is the shortest in the UK at only 2.1km (1.3 miles) and is aimed at runners of all abilities and ages.

Fancy dress is encouraged and in previous years runners have dressed up as reindeers, elves and even Christmas trees, as well as the traditional red Santa.

All finishers receive a medal and there are special prizes for the fastest male, female, under-16s and also the best fancy dress costumes.

Last year the event raised more than £2,000 for charity and the organisers hope to beat this total in 2013.

If you have not already entered, you can enter on the day or bring along a completed form which are available from the Spirit of Monmouth RC website http://www.spiritofmon">www.spiritofmon

mouth.co.uk