The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
More than 600 Santas filled the streets of Dundee yesterday as they made a dash to raise cash for Tayside Children’s Hospital.
Festooned in red, the Santa Dash fundraisers go all out to support children’s hospital campaign
More than 600 Santas filled the streets of Dundee yesterday to raise cash for the Tayside Children’s Hospital at Ninewells.
In only its second year, the Dundee Santa Dash saw Dundonians don the traditional red suit and beard before jogging together through the city centre.
It is hoped the run will see thousands given to the ARCHIE Foundation, a charity set up to raise cash for the hospital.
Garry Smith, events and promotions officer for organisers Leisure and Culture Dundee, said the atmosphere was “absolutely fantastic”.
He said: “Around 500 people signed up before, with an extra 100 turning up on the day.
“Everyone was in the spirit and dressed up. Some of the accessories on show were just great.
“So many people have made an extra effort and embellished their costumes.
“It was brilliant to see City Square mobbed out in a sea of red.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for coming along early on a Sunday morning and just enjoying the race and making as much money as possible for ARCHIE Foundation.”
A whopping £5,000 was raised in the city’s first ever Santa Dash last year, with the total amount raised in 2018 to be revealed in a few weeks’ time.
Furniture and carpet company Gillies was the official sponsor of the event, which saw runners follow a 2km route, starting and finishing in City Square where a prize draw was carried out.
The fundraiser is part of the ARCHIE Foundation’s Tayside Appeal, which is aiming to raise £2 million for a new children’s operating theatre suite.
Mr Smith added: “It’s such an important charity. Everyone in Tayside must know someone who has been helped by the children’s hospital at some stage in their lives.
“It’s a really important one and touches a lot of people in Dundee and across the area.”
Meanwhile, Dundee Bikers held their Santa Run for local charities Glenlaw House and Spectrum. More than 100 bikers took part, raising in excess of £1,000 and also donating toys and gifts for children.