One of the highlights of the Christmas countdown will see fleet-footed Father Christmases pounding the streets of Douglas in the 2014 Isle of Man Bank Santa Dash.

The sprint through the streets of the capital, will take place on Wednesday, December 17, starting at 12.30pm from the bank’s premises in Athol Street.

More than 200 Santas are expected in the event and will dash down Prospect Hill, Victoria Street, along Loch Promenade, up Church Road and along Finch Road to a finish at the entrance to the South Douglas Old Friends’ Association where they will receive a goody bag at the festive warm down reception.

Isle of Man Bank puts up ?3,000 in prize money, which goes to the recipients' chosen charity. There will be prizes of ?300, ?200 and ?100 for the first three Santas to finish, while a ?100 cheque will go to the first woman finisher.

In addition, there will be 20 spot prizes worth ?100, spread throughout the field for pre-determined, but secret, finishing positions and ?100 for the best dressed male and female Santas. All winners will be announced in South Douglas Old Friends Association immediately after the Santa Dash is completed.

Jane Howland, Corporate Sustainability and Sponsorship Manager at Isle of Man Bank, said: ‘The Santa Dash has become a firm fixture in the festive calendar, with crowds gathering to cheer on the participants.

‘We hope to see plenty of Santas, both the competitive ones and those who just enjoy taking part but most importantly raising money for their chosen charities.’

Last year’s winner was Stephen Garrett, who completed the course in four minutes and 27 seconds. Gail Griffiths was the fastest woman, in five minutes and 15 seconds.

To register to take part in the Santa Dash, visit the Isle of Man Bank website iombank.com

Photo - Santas sprint off at the start of the 2013 event.