HUNDREDS of Santas and Elves have come together to raise vital funds for St Clare Hospice over the Christmas period. More than 300 people donned a Santa suit and ran 5k for the Hastingwood-based charity in two festive fundraising events – which have already raised a combined total of over £10,000.

On Sunday 27 November over 150 people dressed up as Father Christmas for the Loughton 5k Santa Run, organised by dedicated St Clare supporter, Geraldine Wilson.

St Clare Community Fundraising Lead, Dani De’ath, said: “The Loughton Santa Run was once again an absolute Christmas Cracker of an event! Geraldine Wilson, and all the shops who support the event along the Debden Broadway, have been fantastic in putting together this festive fundraiser for the past four years. It really was an astounding sight to see so many runners – all dressed in Santa suits – running down the Broadway. We want to say a huge thank you to Geraldine and all those who help organise the event – they really are Hospice Heroes!”

On Sunday 4 December the charity held a second festive 5k run in the Water Gardens in Harlow. More than 160 people took part in the St Clare Santa Dash, braving the chilly winter weather in support of the charity.

St Clare Director of Income Generation, Cheryl Armitage, said: “The Santa Dash was an absolutely amazing way to kick-start the Christmas season and get the whole of Harlow feeling festive. Once again, the town and our local community came together to show phenomenal support – and the team at St Clare couldn’t feel more grateful.”

Cheryl said: “Our two yuletide 5k events proved the perfect way to start the countdown to Christmas – with hundreds of Santas dressed in crimson and white, dashing round the streets of Harlow and Loughton. We would like to thank everyone who took part, helping us raise a combined total of over £10,000. If you haven’t already submitted your sponsor money, then make it your New Year’s resolution as every penny really does count.”

Cheryl continued: “A heartfelt thank you to our fantastic corporate partners at the Grown Up Chocolate Company who sponsored our Santa Dash in Harlow. Without them the event wouldn’t have been possible, and they have helped us to raise enough money to fund our care on Christmas Day – making this day as special as possible for our patients.”