IT’S nearly time to Chase the Pudding.

And it’ll be a special event this year as the Weymouth festive beach race is marking its 10th anniversary.

Santas, elves, fairies and many other fabulous festive characters will gather together to take part in the annual Chase the Pudding event on Sunday, December 17.

Everybody is invited to support this colourful festive event. It starts at 11am, with warm-up and ‘Santa Stretch’ from 10.45am.

The event supports popular local charity the Will Mackaness Trust.

The course is approximately 5km from the Pavilion end of the beach to the groyne at Greenhill and back again.

Entry fees are £10 (£15 with Santa suit included).

Pam Govier, Will Mackaness Trust Director, said: “We are very excited to be hosting the 10th anniversay event of the Chase the Pudding. We have invited all the puddings over the years to attend 'Pudding reunion' and are also inviting all Santas over the years to join us for this special event.

"There is no more amazing sight than watching hundreds of Santas and elfs chasing a big Christmas Pudding along the beach.

“Santas and supporters will be entertained in the Pavilion Ocean Room by Ed Hintze playing Christmas carols for when the runners register and return from the chase. Christmas stalls and a raffle will also be available.

“If anyone is interested in having a stall please could they contact me on govierp@weyvalley.dorset.sch.uk. Come along to help us create a truly memorable experience.”

Mark Steen, Director of BustinSkin, said: “I am delighted that local charity Will Mackaness Trust has taken a lead role in this event; it is a very worthwhile cause. I am sure that the 10th anniversary event will be well supported by many local running clubs, family and friends for this hilarious, happy and healthy festive event.”

Cllr Richard Kosior, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council’s Tourism and Culture spokesman, said: “The Chase the Pudding event is a real spectacle and full of fun, clearly established as a festive favourite for Weymouth.

“Local events like these help raise awareness and money for countless worthwhile charities and good causes across the borough. The council Events Team is happy to provide support to the Chase the Pudding event and I encourage everyone to go down to the seafront on 17 December to cheer on the runners and join the festive fun.”

For full entry and registration details visit: willmackanesstrust.org.uk/christmas-pudding-race

Following the successful introduction last year there will also be a ‘Chase the Elf’ event running for under 14s.