IT'S time to fix your fluffy white beard, jump into a giant red suit and strap on your running shoes.

Visitors to Southampton Common are guaranteed a hilarious sight next month as more than 1,000 joggers are expected to join in a festive fun run dressed as Father Christmas.

The Southampton Santa Dash is currently recruiting jolly joggers to join in the 5km run and raise thousands of pounds for charity.

One of three Christmas runs taking place around the country, the Southampton event is hoping to raise cash for children at Southampton General Hospital.

Organiser James Macdonald said he hopes to attract plenty of runners.

"I'm expecting anything from 500 to 2,000 to join in," he said.

"It's a really worthy cause and all we ask is that people pay £12 to enter and then raise at least £20 by taking part.

"Our aim is to raise £20,000."

The run is due to take place on Sunday, December 9, from 10.30am on the Common. Santa suits are provided by the charity. For more information visit www.santadash.com.