THIS weekend's Santa Dash in Inverclyde could be the last one ever - as its organiser says he does not get enough help to run it.

Charity champion Tommy Armstrong is gearing up Sunday's 5k festive race but he fears it could mark the end of an era.

Tommy ‘The Clown’ has been organising the Dash from the Waterfront Leisure Complex for the last 14 years.

It sees runners don Santa outfits and spread Christmas cheer as they run while raising money for local good causes.

However, the 78-year-old has to organise the event on his own and with fewer volunteers than previous years he has been struggling to get everything ready.

Tommy said: “The Santa Dash is always a great event.

"It has raised lots for charity but it is a lot of work to organise.

"I have to do it all myself.

"People say they will help but it is a busy time of year.

"I think Sunday's dash might be the last one.”

Runners will set off from the Waterfront Leisure Complex at 12.30pm on Sunday.

Tommy has knocked £5 off the adult entry fee, taking it down to £10, in a bid to get as many people as possible taking part and children go free.

The runners will make their way from the Waterfront to the Esplanade buoy and back.

There will be a free buffet afterwards plus goody bags and medals for those taking part.

Tommy said: “It is always a good laugh and we raise a lot for charity.

"Any donations made on the day will be split between a few charities.

"I hope a lot of people will get involved.”

People can enter on the day and registration will start at 11.30am.