West Park turned red and white as Beacon Centre for the Blind's 10th Santa Run brings Christmas cheer to Wolverhampton

West Park in Wolverhampton was transformed into a sea of red and white as Santas jingled their way around the Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run.

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The event, which took place from 9.30am on Sunday (December 7), was a festive highlight as the charity rounded off its special 150th anniversary year.

Hosted by Beetlejuice actor Rupi Lal, the race was officially started by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Craig Collingswood, who embraced the Christmas spirit and sent the Santas on their way with a big festive cheer.

Alongside them, the City of Wolverhampton Council Choir filled the park with live Christmas classics, keeping spirits high all morning, while Elf on the Shelf brought the mischief all morning, and professional photographer Nathan Styles captured the magic of the day.

The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography
The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography

Beacon’s Fundraising Manager, Sarah Dovey said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who turned up and helped us spread some festive joy, especially in the 10th year of our Santa Run! A huge thank you to everyone who raised sponsorship, every pound you raised makes a real difference to people with sight loss. 

The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography
The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography

“We also couldn’t have done it without our amazing volunteers, including the Parkrun team, our finish line sponsors Insolation Solar Ltd, and of course the City of Wolverhampton Council Choir. And a massive thank you to the Mayor of Wolverhampton for giving us the perfect Christmas send-off, it was a brilliant morning all round!”

The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography
The Beacon Centre for the Blind’s 10th annual Santa Run. Photo: Nathan Styles Photography

Beacon CEO Lisa Cowley added: “The Santa Run is always a special day, but celebrating its 10th year during our 150th anniversary made it even more meaningful. Seeing the community come together with so much energy, joy and generosity reminds us why this event matters so much.”

All money raised will directly support Beacon’s work across the Black Country and Staffordshire, helping people with sight loss live more independent, confident and fulfilling lives.