OLDHAM’S big hearted mayor is to join 1,500 fundraisers dressed in Father Christmas outfits for Saddleworth’s annual Santa Dash on Saturday.

Organised by Saddleworth Round Table, the mammoth sell-out event, now it’s fourth year, launches in Uppermill Square at 2.30pm.

And Cllr Javid Iqbal, the mayor, said: "The aim of my Mayor's 1000 challenge, as well as raising money for five fantastic local charities, has always been to raise aspirations.

"By joining a fantastic event like the Santa Dash - and a range of other physical challenges I've got coming up - I want to encourage other people to do the same - push their boundaries and challenge themselves.

"I'm no Mo Farah but I've been training and I am going to get round in my full Santa outfit and I'd encourage others to do the same.

"I'd urge people taking part to consider getting involved with my campaign.

"Watch my video at https://vimeo.com/290311254, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/mayor or search for "MayorJav" on social media to follow me and get involved."

On Saturday an exciting warm-up for the dash starts at 1.30pm and the race begins at 2.30pm near the stage in the square with entertainment lead by local radio station breakfast show host, Elliot Eastwick.

Throughout the day organisers say there will lots for all the family to see and do with a Christmas market open from 12 till 6pm in the square and at Saddleworth Museum on the village High Street.

At 4pm the Santa parade and lights switch on will commence with Father Christmas being drawn by Saddleworth Morris Men down the high street to the museum.

At the museum Santa will be joined by St Chads School Choir and Dobcross Youth Band where carols will be sung before switching on the new lights supplied by the Uppermill Lights Committee.

The parade will then continue back up High Street to the Square for carols and the big switch on of Christmas tree lights.

And a huge firework finale will close between 5.30 and 6pm.

Richard Foster, chairman of Saddleworth Round Table said:“We’re looking forward to another fun packed afternoon with lots for all the family to see and do.

“We’re amazed at how popular the Santa Dash has become from about 100 people four years ago to well over 1,000 this year which is fantastic. It’s an amazing spectacle to see a sea of red santas filling the high street.

“As a charity all profits raised from the event are ploughed back into the local community through worthy local causes and organisations.

“I’d like to thank all our sponsors, supporters and volunteers who without their commitment and contribution this event would not be possible.

“And particular thanks our main event sponsor Albion Farm shop and firework sponsor Mono Alarms.”