Thousands of schoolchildren are donning antlers to join a festive fundraiser.

Schools, nurseries, and sports clubs are participating in Severn Hospice's Rudolph Relay.

The event invites participants from Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid Wales to skip, hop, jog, or dash around the schoolyard or sports hall for sponsorship.

This fun activity not only raises money for a good cause but also educates children about the importance of hospices in the community.

Nicky Green, senior community fundraiser at Severn Hospice, said: "We’ve had an amazing response to Rudolph Relay this year.

"I am so pleased at how our community’s young people are taking us to their heart and are keen to get involved.

"The generosity of the children, their families, teachers, and the wider community is truly heartwarming.

"We’ve loved seeing the creative ways the kids are planning their relays."

More than 25 organisations, including around 4,000 children, have pledged to support the relay.

Each child participating will receive a pair of reindeer antlers, a certificate, and a sticker as a thank you for joining in.

Severn Hospice needs to raise £2 for every £3 it spends on care.

The participating schools, nurseries, and sports clubs are encouraged to raise a minimum of £2 per child to help the hospice continue its work.

Guilsfield CP School in Powys is organising its first Rudolph Relay after witnessing Severn Hospice's care first-hand.

Mrs Amanda Williams, headteacher at Guilsfield Primary, said: "When I heard about Rudolph Relay, I knew we had to take part.

"Severn Hospice cared for the son of one of our staff members, and I’ve seen how much they’ve helped her.

"We’re proud to support such a wonderful local charity."

The participants can host their Rudolph Relay at any time in November or December, tailoring it to their schedule and curriculum.

All schools, nurseries, and clubs will receive a participant pack and a special certificate recognising their fundraising efforts.

Ms Green added: "There’s no upper limit to how many people or schools, nurseries, or clubs want to get involved, and every £1 raised means so much to us right now.

"Christmas is all about coming together and the gift of giving, so Rudolph Relay is a great way to do that.

"We understand how busy teachers are, so we’ve created plenty of resources to help promote the relay in the local community.

"There’s still time for more schools, nurseries, and sports clubs to join in, and we would love to see even more children get involved.

"It’s also a great opportunity for them to learn about the importance of citizenship, community, and charity."

To find out more, visit their website.