THE BTR Liverpool Santa Dash has already surpassed last year's participant numbers with more than 7,000 Santas registered.

With just over two weeks left until the 20th anniversary of the event, the organisers have opened a pop-up shop at St Johns Shopping Centre to accommodate the enthusiastic Santa sign-ups.

The shop has been bustling with Santas collecting their suits and goodie bags, which come in red, blue, and mini.

Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress, Debby Lofthouse, and Alan Rothwell (Image: Erica Dillon) The milestone BTR Liverpool Santa Dash is set to take place on December 1, 2024, with a 5K route starting at 9.30am from Pier Head Liverpool.

A 1K Mini Dash for youngsters is also scheduled to start at 11am from Castle Street.

All participants will enjoy a grandstand finish at Liverpool Town Hall, complete with stilt-walking festive characters and 'real' snow.

Last year, the event saw 6,100 Santas take part, the biggest turnout since 2018.

Alan Rothwell, Lady Mayoress, Lord Mayor, Clio Young, and St Johns Shopping Centre team members (Image: Erica Dillon) That number has already been surpassed this week, with more registrations expected.

Although online entries have closed, people can still register in person at the Santa Dash pop-up shop at St Johns Shopping Centre.

The shop is open seven days a week until 5pm on November 30.

Participants can sign up in the shop and collect everything they need, including the run number, Santa suit, medal wristband, and goodie bag.

Clio Young, Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress, Alan Rothwell, Debby Lofthouse (Image: Erica Dillon) Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Richard Kemp, said: "It was great visiting the Santa Dash pop-up shop at St Johns Shopping Centre, people were pouring in to sign up and collect their Santa suits.

"It’s a huge asset for the city and it’s going to be a great day.

"I’m looking forward to setting the Santas off as they dash round the city centre.

Yvonne Rothwell, Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress, and Alan Rothwell (Image: Erica Dillon) "I’ll be cheering everyone on – including our very own Lady Mayoress who will be joining in the fun, so please give her a wave along the way."

The event is a platform for community groups, businesses, and charities to fundraise independently while participating.

The entry fee covers all costs to organise and deliver the event, including road closures, safety measures, Santa suits, medals, goodie bags, and entertainment.