Some frequently (and a few infrequently) asked questions
Q. I have placed my order but can’t see my email receipt to collect the suits ?
A. The email is automated and sometimes get caught in email anti-spam systems. Check your email Spam or Junk folders first. We also find some email addresses given when ordering are wrong (eg mis-typed on a mobile phone !). If you cannot find the email please contact us here and we will send you another.
Q. I dont understand the process to order and register ?
A. We have provided a Step by Step guide to the process here.
Q. Can we enter as a team ?
A. Yes. You can enter with individual registrations or by one person purchasing multiple registrations (you can set the number required in the shopping basket page). We would love to hear about your team – who is in it, why are you taking part and any good causes you are supporting. please contact us here. Once they receive their runner number each individual will then use the QR code to register their personal details.
Q. Will we get a bottle of water at the end of the run ?
A. Yes. Generously donated by Lincolnshire Co-oP. But please dispose of the empty bottles in the bins provided for recycling.
Q. How do pay for my entry ?
A. When you register online you can pay using your PayPal account or using a credit or debit card through PayPal (you don’t need a PayPal account to do that – just follow the instructions).
Q. What happens once I receive my runner number ?
A. Everyone taking part must have a runner number which they must display to be allowed to enter. Each person must use the QR code on the runner number to access our individual registration page on our website. This is necessary so that we have the name of each runner and any emergency contact details. This information is only used to support the event on the day. It also enables us to send every participant a personalised certificate of participation by email after the event..
Q. Can I wear my own Santa Suit or come in fancy dress ?
A. Yes. We have an “eco-registration” option. No suit is provided, although you still get a runner number and a finisher’s medal. You can buy or make your own santa suit which you can hopefully be able to use again. We have provided a basic dress code to ensure the event remains festive, avoids any offence and that we still have that great “sea of red” running round uphill Lincoln.
Q. Is there an age limit ?
A. No. The event is open to santas of all ages. Runners up to 8 years old must participate with a parent or responsible adult, which means everyone must register to take part (under 5’s can register for a small charge of £2 as L’Elf Runners). Those aged 9 and over can run alone, but make sure anyone aged 16 and under is accompanied by a parent or responsible adult on the day. All entrants whatever their age must wear their runner number bib to be allowed entry to the event.
Q. Can I run with a dog ?
A. Yes. As in previous years we welcome dogs in fancy dress and well behaved owners (who must register for the event too). There is a small charge of £ 2 per dog. Dogs MUST be on a leash and kept under control. There will be a separate assembly area for dogs and owners. Dogs are not permitted within the grounds of Lincoln Castle. You are responsible for your dog at all times, keeping him/her under control and clearing up any mess on the route. More information here.
Q. Can I run with a child in a pushchair or sling ?
A. Yes but you must register both yourself and your child.
Q. Can I take part in a mobility scooter ?
A. Yes. The course is reasonably flat. There are some rises and descents. There are also some cobbled areas.
Q. Where can I collect my santa suit(s) ?
A. There are three collection points this year. (or you can choose to have your suit(s) and numbers posted to you for an additional charge). If you are ordering and collecting on behalf of a large team please contact us beforehand so that we can ensure we have sufficient stock ready. The preferred collection point for bulk orders is EH Thorn Beehives at Rand where there is plenty of stock and ample parking.
Q. Why are there different prices and options for the run ?
A. The full price of entry is £ 18 for a 4km (2 lap) run. We have had to increase this as the costs of running the event have risen significantly. However we wanted to make the event affordable for families with young children so we have a discounted price for those wanting to run just 1 lap (2km). We also have a discounted price for youths and children. and those running 2 laps (4km). Check out the ticket entry classes here. Your runner number bib will have a colour band, orange indicating 1 lap entry and blue band indicating a 2 lap entry. At the start you will be directed to the orange or blue starting pen. Only the 2 lap entrants will be eligible for the fastest run trophies.
Q. Will my under 5 get a medal ?
A. Yes and a free toddler santa hat as well as the personalised digital certificate of completion.
Q. Is there an award for fastest runner ?
A. Yes. We have 4 awards fastest girl, boy, woman, and man. Only the 2 lap entrants are eligible for an award. However this is a FUN RUN. We have no chip timing or accreditation status for the run. We make the awards with best endeavours but cannot guarantee the time and position in the run of any participant.
Q. What happens if the event is cancelled eg for safety reasons due to bad weather ?
A. See our terms and conditions for force majeure cancellations. Entry fees may not be refunded as event costs must still be covered. Remaining funds will be donated to nominated charities. (Fortunately this has not happened yet !).
Q, Can I leave my bag anywhere ?
A. Sorry we have no facilities for handling and storing bags and personal belongings.
Q. Can I run for a charity of my own choice, or does it have to me one of the event partner charities ?
A. Yes you can although we encourage everyone to support one of our amazing 15 charities
Q. Can we collect money (buckets or tins) along the route for our charity or good cause ?
A. You CANNOT hold a street collection without first obtaining a permit from the City of Lincoln Council. It is ILLEGAL to collect money or sell articles for the benefit of charitable or other purposes without obtaining a street collection licence from the licensing authority if that collection is held ‘in a street or public place’.
Q. When is the latest I can order a ticket ?
A. Details of our deadlines for orders and collections can be found here.
