Scots fire service to host first ever festive fun day

On December 17 from 10am, families are invited to visit the National Headquarters in Cambuslang and enjoy a host of activities including visits to Santa's Grotto and a charity raffle.

Runners kitted out in their best Santa looks can take part by walking or running a 5km route to raise money for the Fire Fighter's Charity. A 1km route will be in place for those under 16.

Lyndsay Campbell, fundraiser for the Fire Fighter's Charity, said: "We support firefighters across the UK whether they are in service or retired and their families as well.

"We help them in different ways like rehabilitation, physiotherapy and mental health support.

"Due to the nature of their role, injuries can happen and there's a lot of trauma that firefighters see because of the nature of their job.

"We support firefighters throughout their lives whether its a new injury or a recurring one.

"We also launched a suicide helpline in November.

"Unfortunately we are seeing more and more of these cases over the years and we wanted to put something out specifically for firefighters.

"We're there to ensure that firefighters live a long, happy, healthy life."

Greg Hastie, wellbeing practitioner with the SFRS, said the service was hoping to make the Santa Dash an annual event.

He said: "We want to make this a permanent fixture on an annual basis.

"We're looking to make it big and engage with the community as best we can and have an enjoyable day."

Lyndsey added: "We want people to come and support the firefighters and have a chance to see the facilities here.

"The fire service is very much a fire family and we want to extend that out to the community as well."

The event will be opened by broadcaster Amy Irons and snacks and refreshments will also be available.

Firefighters will be at hand on the day to show little ones (and big ones) around one of their fire appliances.

Registration for adults costs £10. To book tickets, click here.