HUNDREDS of Father Christmases went dashing through Arrow Valley Park recently for Primrose Hospice – and raising more than £5,500 in the process.
About 300 festively dressed runners attended the Santa Fun Run, now in its second year, to take part in either the 10k, 5k or 1k routes.
There was something for everyone whether they were seasoned runners, families or people enjoying a morning stroll in aid of the hospice.
Sarah Harris, community fundraiser at Primrose Hospice, said: “It was an incredible to see so many Father Christmases.
“Everyone really got into the spirit and it was great to see young and old dressed up – as well as some of our four-legged friends too.
“We were all in the festive spirit and you could see how happy people were to complete their route, whether they ran, walked or jogged their way around.
“We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took part and made the event such a success.”
The Santas were given a fun warm up session by fitness instructor Emma Land before the races got under way.
Around 50 children took part in the 1k route while some even braved the 5k and 10k circuits.
The event was sponsored by Central England Co-operative Funeralcare, who provided medals, mince pies and bottled water, as well as Redditch STARS running club.
The hospice also thanked Dave Morgan for providing the stage and Mark Williams for stepping into the official Father Christmas suit to start the race.
The Father Christmases were entertained by solo singer and rising star Meg Scane, the Rock Choir and children from Bromsgrove Rock School.
All money raised will go towards the £1.75million Primrose Hospice needs to raise annually to keep its services free for people with life-limiting conditions, their families and bereaved adults and children.
This Christmas, Primrose Hospice is holding its pop-up Christmas Wrapping stall at the Kingfisher Shopping Centre, Redditch, until Christmas Eve and Carols by Candlelight at the hospice on Thursday, December 19 from 6pm.
Businesses and schools can also sign up to take part in the Christmas Jumper Day which is taking place on Friday, December 20.
For more information, visit primrosehospice.org or email [email protected].
