Sleigh-Loads of Santas Raise Sackfuls of Cash

To view Santas on the Run 2009 photographs please click here

Santa could be spotted here, there and everywhere in Chesham on 29th November as he got into the Christmas spirit with a fundraising run for Iain Rennie Hospice at Home and the Pepper Foundation.

Santa was accompanied by 300 supporters of all ages, all dressed just like him, for the second IRHH Santas on the Run event in Lowndes Park. Luckily for our runners the rain managed to stay away (just about) for the event but it was rather muddy and slippery underfoot.

Sponsorship money is still coming in but the event hopes to raise a terrific £20,000 to help fund the work of IRHH nurses and Pepper children's nurses in the Chilterns area of Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.

IRHH Director of Fundraising and Marketing Gillian Barnett said: "We are absolutely delighted with the success of our second Santas on the Run. Everyone had a great time and their efforts have given a huge boost to our fundraising work in the run-up to Christmas. I would like to thank all the runners, their supporters and sponsors.

"Thank you also to the many volunteers who gave up their time on the day to act as marshals, helping our Santas negotiate the course and giving them some much-needed encouragement."

The runners, some accompanied by Santa dogs, were started on their way b y the Real Santa and the Chesham Town Crier completing either a 5km run or the 1km mini run around the park. Before setting off, they gathered together for a brief warm up with Jodie from Physique Gym .

They finished with a well-deserved mince pie or two - special thanks to Greggs in Chesham for providing these tasty treats.

Congratulations to all our runners who were presented with a goody bag and a medal.

Please send your sponsor money into IRHH 52A Western Road, Tring, Herts, HP23 4BB.

Thank you again to all those who took part and made this event such a huge success - well done!!

To view Santas on the Run 2009 photographs please click here

1st December 2009