Santas cut a dash in fun run

Around 300 people went on the run dressed as Father Christmas to raise money for charity.

Young and old donned Santa Claus outfits to carry out a mile fun run through Stafford town centre streets in aid of St Giles Hospice.

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The race, followed the parade by The Mercian Regiment so there were crowds lining Greengate Street to cheer on the runners.

Joe Tromans, aged 23, one of the organisers, said: "It went very well, it took people up to 20 minutes to complete, we had everyone taking part from eight months to 80."

Mr Tromans said the visiting soldiers added to everyone's enjoyment of yesterday's event.

He said: "I think it helped the atmosphere. Normally on a Sunday the town centre is completely empty."

Councillor Mike Smith, the cabinet member for leisure at Stafford Borough Council, said: "It certainly was quite a spectacle to see Market Square filled by hundreds of Santas."

The organisers are still counting the total money raised from the event. The runners gathered at Market Square, before heading down Martin Street, then on to Tipping Street, then down Greengate Street, before moving on to Crabbery Street. turning in to Stafford Street than back up to Market Square.

This was the first time Stafford Borough Council had organised the dash, taking over the reigns from Katherine House Hospice.

Councillor Smith added: "It looked as if everyone had a good time, even if they were a little breathless at the end."