SCHOOLCHILDREN are set to dress up as festive elves around Bolton in the coming weeks — but it won’t be Santa’s workshop they’ll be helping out with.

Hundreds of primary schoolchildren across the town will be taking part in an ‘Elf Run’ to raise money for Bolton Hospice, as part of their end-of-year fundraising push.

Hospice bosses say that so far, they have signed up 11 schools to take part in the ‘Big Bolton Elf Run’.

They provide elf hats for all participants and pupils, along with a Santa costume for the leader of the pack.

The school chooses its date and venue, with the hospice only asking for sponsorship forms.

Paul Johnson, headteacher of Egerton Primary School, where pupils will be completing the run on Saturday, December 7, said: “As a school we feel that it is important to teach our children that they can have a positive impact on people’s lives and not to just think of themselves, especially at this time of year.

“When the opportunity arose to work with Bolton Hospice, it was something we wanted to support. The children are excited to take part in this festive event, and it will be a fantastic way to end our Christmas Fayre.”

The run is the first time the event has been held in Bolton, with the hospice hoping that it will go on to be an annual fundraising effort.

Maria Passarello, of Bolton Hospice added: “We provide parties with the elf hats while one will be dressed as Santa. They can do it during a fair or a PE lesson, all we are asking for is a sponsorship form.

“The reason is two fold — the pupils can get involved in the festivities of Christmas while raising money for charity.”

The hospice has given out Christmas tree ‘totalisers’— which will enable pupils and schools to keep track of the money they have raised. Maria added: “It’s something for everyone. Celebrate Christmas and raise money at the same time."

Call 01204 663 071 and ask for Maria or Grace.