December 8 will see a parade of beards and red woolly hats at Alexandra Palace as, for the first time, YMCA North London holds a Santa Run at the historic Haringey location.

The charity hopes to raise £15,000 through the efforts of runners willing to dress up as Father Christmas in the name of tackling homelessness, increasing physical activity in young people, and promoting education and mental health awareness.

Adults will take on a 5km course, 10- to 15-year-olds a 2.5km one, and the under-10s a 1km course designed for “Santa’s little helpers”.

Francesca Johnson from the YMCA said: “By entering the Santa Run, people will be helping YMCA North London to continue providing support to local families and individuals, through our community services, and housing.”

YMCA North London has been part of the Haringey community since 1903, when it opened its first hostel in Crouch Hill. Sign up for the run at ymcanorthlondon.org.uk/events/santa-run/