Express & Star

Sandwell Santa Dash - VIDEO and PICTURES

A sea of red descended on a Black Country beauty spot as the returning Santa Dash attracted 700 participants.

Published

The event at Sandwell Valley Country Park yesterday was only in its second year but proved a huge hit with all types, from keen runners to those seeking a bit of fresh air.

The rain clouds threatened to ruin the fun but held off leaving dry conditions for those walking, jogging or running around Swan Pool.

Cathy Ferriday, one of the organisers at Mytime Active, said: "It was incredible to see so many people from families to those with dogs to others with children.

"From what I could tell everyone had a really good time."

Mytime Active has organised the event, supported by Sandwell Leisure Trust and Sandwell Council, as a fun way for Sandwell residents of all ages to get active and enjoy themselves at Christmas.

For £5, participants who signed up had the choice of walk, jogging, or gently strolling the 2km route.

The event started with a mass Christmas-themed warmup to get everyone in the festive spirit before the dash got underway around 11am on Saturday.

Michelle Cresswell, aged 42, from West Bromwich, took part with her friend, Stacey.

She said: "Hand on heart I can honestly say I have never seen so many Santas in one place. It was sort of bizarre but so much fun.

"I run anyway and I love Christmas so it was just a great way to combine the two with no pressure on it.

"It really was a great atmosphere. Even the warm-up is the most fun I have had pre-race."

Lisa Newey, 44, from Tipton, took part with her mother, aunt and friends.

She said: "It was brilliant. Even on the walk there it was surprising how many people stopped to stay what are you doing and why are you dressed that way?

"Normally you walk past so many people and they grunt but because we were dressed up as we were it was nice.

"The dash itself was great and really well organised."

Rupi Lal, a presenter at Radio Sandwell who hosted the event, said it was "amazing".

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.