A FESTIVE walk which looks to bring people together who are alone on Christmas Day will be going ahead again this year. 

Jay Mistry, from Huddersfield, has been donning the outfit of Santa Claus since 2019 and sending out an open invite to all via social media for a walk on Christmas Day in the Lakes. 

Mistry first started these annual hikes on Scafell Pike, intending to connect with others who, like him, spent Christmas away from their families.

In his first year, seven people turned up. Last year however, the group grew to 62 people - making it his biggest turnout to date. 

This year, everyone is being invited to join the group at 10am (December, 25) from Keswick's Moot Hall for a walk-up Latrigg. 

In years past, the group has also been received warmly at local pubs in Keswick after the day's adventures.

"Christmas can be one of the loneliest days of the year. It's important that we support each other," Jay said prior to his 2021 hike. 

"The pandemic's shown how much pressure is being placed on people's mental health and how much loneliness is out there. It's made people feel very isolated I think.

"It's something to do and helps get the Christmas spirit out there." 

All are welcome to join the walk that is suited to all capabilities, with furry friends welcome to join the journey.