An NHS charity is to hold its first-ever Santa Dash.

The event, organised by the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Charity, will take place on Sunday, December 15.

Starting at the Royal London Yacht Club in Cowes at 10.30am, participants will have the option to race along the seafront for either 2km or 5km.

Kate Sandys, head of the charity, said: "This is an exciting time for the charity, and we are so excited to be launching our first ever Santa Dash!

"We are hoping to grow this event year on year but for this year, we are just dedicated to spreading joy and making a positive impact on St Mary’s Hospital.

For more information and to sign up, go to https://www.iow.nhs.uk/get-involved/charitable-funds/fundraise-us

"This Santa Dash is a wonderful way to bring people together for such a fantastic cause. I am incredibly grateful for the support of our volunteers, participants and sponsors who have all made this event possible."

The charity will provide the Santa suits, and everyone who takes part will get a medal. Bacon and vegetarian rolls, as well as hot drinks, will be on sale.

The Santa Dash helps the charity in its mission to care for the Isle of Wight community, offering support to both staff and volunteers and funding for items not fully covered by NHS funds.