Squirrel Wood Scout Campsite near Doncaster became a sea of festive reds and greens as almost 150 children dashed through the forest for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

The Cubs and Beavers from Doncaster Danum Scouts descended on the campsite for the second annual Bluebell Wood Elf Dash. 

Ably assisted by Chief Elves Jimmy Hagyard and Claire Maidens, the children showed bags of ‘elf-determination’ as they got off to a flying start when Santa sounded the air horn.

They then navigated a short circuit through Squirrel Wood before racing for the finish line. Each of the Cubs and Beavers who dashed through the forest was sponsored for the event, with all proceeds going to Bluebell Wood.

Jimmy Hagyard, Assistant District Commissioner (Cubs), said: “It was great to see so many young people enjoying the great outdoors, celebrating Christmas and raising money for Bluebell Wood."

The Elf Dash raised a grand total of £651 for Bluebell Wood.

Sally Baker, Community Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood, said: “Doncaster Danum Scouts have been brilliant supporters of Bluebell Wood for a number of years and they’ve really pulled out all the stops for our Elf Dash.

“It looked like so much fun and we’re very grateful they raised so much for the hospice in the process.

“A huge thank you to the Beavers and Cubs who took part and to everyone who helped make it such a big success.”