THE festive season will soon be heralded by the sound of pounding hooves when Epilepsy Action’s annual Reindeer Stampede returns next month.

Runners of all abilities can take part to raise funds and support more than 600,000 people affected by epilepsy in the UK.

There are more than 21,000 people living with the condition in West Yorkshire alone and the 5k family run, which will take place on December 3, plays a huge role in raising vital funds for the Yeadon-based charity.

Last year, the stampede ran a new route in Lister Park and attracted more runners than ever before.

Carl Foster, fundraising events officer at Epilepsy Action, said: “Over the past seven years, the Epilepsy Action Reindeer Stampede has gone from strength to strength.

“We welcome runners from all over West Yorkshire to don their antlers and support this brilliant cause.

“The event is open to all ages, so come and join our herd at Lister Park, kick-start the festive season and make this year our best yet.

“Since starting in 2010, the Reindeer Stampede has raised over £35,000 and makes a huge difference to the lives of people affected by epilepsy.

“Just £6 could help our experts support someone newly diagnosed with epilepsy, providing advice and information when they need it most.”

The Reindeer Stampede is open to anyone aged eight and upwards.

Younger children can take part in a mini Reindeer Stampede of 400 metres.

Participants can either run or walk the route and fancy dress is always welcome. Every entrant will receive a free pair of reindeer antlers and all finishers will receive a medal and mince pie.

Registration begins at 9am on the day of the race in Lister Park.

Advance entry costs £14 for adults and £8 for children aged 15 and under.

People can also sign up on the day for an additional £2.

The children’s mini Reindeer Stampede, for those under the age of eight, costs £3 on the day.

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

There are also volunteering opportunities for non-runners. For more information or to sign up, visit epilepsy.org.uk/reindeer or contact the events team on 0113 210 8797.

Epilepsy is a serious neurological condition that anyone can develop at any time in their life. Every day, 87 people in the UK are newly diagnosed.

Epilepsy Action helped more than two million people in 2016 - for more information about the charity’s work visit www.epilepsy.org.uk