IT maybe two months away, but organisers of this year's Great Skipton Santa Fun Run on November 25 already have plans well underway.

The hugely popular eight annual event, which will coincide with the switching on of the town's Christmas lights, had its official launch last week at Skipton Golf Club.

Organised by Skipton Craven Rotary Club, the launch was attended by several of the area's charities, set to benefit from the run, and also by Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) and Skipton Town Council.

Rotarian, Colin Hargreaves, event chairman, explained how the 5km run was a great opportunity for charities, individuals and organisations to raise money.

Last year, more than 1,800 people, all dressed as Santas, took part in the run, together raising £37,000 and adding to the £215,000 raised since it was first held in 2010.

This year, for the first time, the run will start and finish in Skipton High Street, instead of at Aireville Park, and there will also be improved parking, changing and toilet facilities, said Mr Hargreaves.

Kelly Wheelwright, Skipton Town Council's events manager, said how the town council and the rotary club had worked in partnership to help make the event run smoothly.

There will be stalls, street food and entertainment, with the Christmas lights being switched on at 5.30pm.

The run is open to adults and children, as long as they are at least six years old. It will cost £15 for adults, and £18 on the day; and £8 for six to 15 year olds, and £10 on the day. The race will set off at 11am. To find out more, including out how to sign up, go to: skiptonsantafunrun.com