A FESTIVE atmosphere is expected for this Sunday's Bosom Friends Santa Fun Run in Barnoldswick.

The Santa Fun Run, which had been scheduled to take place earlier this month, is now being held on Christmas Eve, starting at West Craven High School at 10am.

The event, originally planned for Sunday, December 10, was due to feature 230 participants all decked out in Santa suits, but after a risk assessment that morning organiser Sharon Hurst was advised to cancel the fun run.

"Because the pavements were so bad in Barnoldswick, I was advised to cancel it," Sharon said. "There was ice on the footpaths and I couldn't risk anyone falling."

However, Sharon is now looking forward to this Sunday's event, saying: "I'm sure it will be very festive. The weather forecast is a lot milder, and although it could rain, I think rain is a lot better than people slipping on ice."

With registration all taken care of and Santa suits already given out, participants can just turn up on the day ready to run.

Starting at West Craven High School, the 5km course will meander down to the canal towpath heading towards Salterforth, returning up Kelbrook Road and through the streets of Barnoldswick, and finishing in the town square.

Sharon also said there will be bucket collections for spectators who wish to make a donation to Barnoldswick and Earby Bosom Friends, the charity which supports people and families living with cancer.