Ho-ho-hurry up there, Santas!
HUNDREDS of people donned red and white and ran around a Widnes park over the weekend to raise money for Halton Haven Hospice.
The annual Santa Dash was held in Victoria Park on Sunday, December 4.
A spokesman for the hospice in Barnfield Avenue, Runcorn, said that approximately 200 people took part in the 4k run, wearing Santa costumes.
He added that although there was not yet a confirmed fundraising total since sponsorship money was still being collected, the charity was aiming to raise £5,000 through the event.
Hospice fundraiser and Santa Dash organiser Ciaran Clotworthy said: “Thank you so much to all the wonderful Santas who took part on Sunday.
“It was another fantastic event this year and we were delighted to see the levels of support there are for the hospice from the people of Halton.
“We’re hoping to raise around £5,000 from the event this year and it’s only possible because of the people who take part. We’re so grateful to our supporters and can’t wait to see everyone again next year.”
The mayor of Halton, Cllr Ged Philbin, and the mayoress, Rosalin Wong, were on hand to present the Santas with their medals as they ● crossed the finish line.
Halton Haven Hospice cares for people aged 18 and over with life-limiting illnesses living in the borough and surrounding areas.
The charity provides support to patients and their families according to their individual needs.
It relies on fundraising events sich as the Santa Dash and donations to raise half its running costs – approximately £1.25mn each year – as only 50% are covered by the Government.