CHRISTMAS came very early to a York primary school.

Park Grove School’s running club have been training hard for the British Heart Foundation’s annual York Chase the Pud race in December and runners from the club aged between five and 11 and their parents were snapped in training at school dressed in the charity’s Santa suits.

Chase the Pud will see hundreds of people choose from a 3K or a 6K route around York Knavesmire for a festive Santa walk or fun run – dressed in festive fancy dress and chasing a Christmas pudding. All money raised from the event will help to fund the BHF’s life-saving research.

Vicky Hearson, York Chase the Pud lead organiser and BHF York committee member, said: “The challenge is a fantastic, fun event to be part of and registration is now open. We’re looking forward to welcoming Santas of all ages to York Knavesmire on Sunday, December 7.

It provides great fun for the family and is a brilliant way to kick-start the Christmas festivities and to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

"I am delighted that a running club I run at Park Grove is getting involved and have been training hard this term. The BHF York Committee of volunteers would like to encourage as many people as possible to register in advance."

Registration is now open and all adults and children aged 14 and over who register in advance will receive a bright red Santa suit to wear on the day. A limited number of similar outfits will be available for those who register on the day, while supplies last. Children under 14 are encouraged to come in festive fancy dress so they can enter the children's fancy dress competition.

Entry is £10 for adults and young people aged 14 and over, with advanced registration closing at the end of November. Children under 14 can enter for free if in fancy dress and accompanied by a paying adult.

For more information and to register please phone 0121 661 5161 or visit www.bhf.org.uk/chasethepud