SANTA has sent out an urgent plea for elves to help him to provide support for children and to care for patients over the festive period.

Elves, big and small are being required to dress up and take part in a Festive Elf Walk and Run in aid of St David’s Hospice Care.

The event, which is being sponsored by Wales-based business Western Power Distribution and supported by Llanyrafon Manor, takes place on Saturday, November 25 at Llanyrafon Manor and North and South Fields in Cwmbran.

Mum of two Ruth Adams, her husband Mark and children, Bryony, 10, and Ellie, seven, from Henllys, Cwmbran, who will all be joining the fun, gathered at Cwmbran’s Festive Productions to launch the event.

Ruth, who works as an education liaison officer with WPD, in Cwmbran, said: “We’re all really looking forward to taking part in the Elf Walk; it should be a lot of fun.”

Ruth, whose late father Ieaun Williams was cared for by St Anne’s Hospice, says she and her family try to help support the charity as much as they can.

Ruth said: “Dad, who passed away at Christmas time, had such wonderful care at St Anne’s Hospice. It’s especially at this time of year that we remember him and the care he received.”

Karen Welch, from WPD, said: “As long-standing supporters of St David’s Hospice Care we are delighted to sponsor the Elf Walk and Run. We hope it will help to raise vital funds for the charity in a really fun way.

"St David’s Hospice Care is a fantastic charity and I would encourage local people and businesses to find out more about the marvellous work that they do throughout our community.”

Franca Nigro, of St David’s Hospice Care, said: “Money raised from the event will help to fund support children our 'Unicorn' service over Christmas, supporting children who have lost a special person and also care for patients.

“Fitness is not essential; all that’s required is fancy dress skills and a sense of fun. Don’t worry, all 'elf' and safety is taken care of.

“Participants, including pets, can join in the Christmas spirit and enter the elf fancy dress competition. All elves will enjoy their walk or run and also the hot chocolate and cookies at the finish, as well as a certificate and medal proving you are Santa’s helper.”

Participating children can bring their letter to Santa and place them in a special letter box.

The event starts at 11.30am at Llanyrafon Manor. Entry costs are £10 for 13 and over; £5 for 12 and under; and £25 for a family (two adults and up to three children).

For details of how to enter visit stdavidshospicecare.org/event-details/festive-elf-event/ or call 01633 851051.