ONE hundred and twenty Santas were seen running, jogging and walking around Launceston on Sunday, at Children’s Hospice South West’s (CHSW) Santas on the Run event.

More than £3,000 was raised for the children’s charity from the event, which was a 2km fun run around the town starting and finishing in the Castle grounds.

Groups of friends, family and colleagues took part in the run, as well as babies in buggies and dogs too.

Santas of all ages also donned a silver santa hat to celebrate the 25th anniversary of CHSH.

Santas on the Run was generously sponsored by a Plymouth-based printer and photocopier company meaning that even more money raised in sponsorship by those who took part can go straight to the charity rather than be used to cover event costs.

Santas gathered in the Town Hall where they enjoyed a warm-up from personal trainer Matt Luxton and then started the run in the Castle grounds with musical accompaniment from Launceston Town Band playing a whole host of Christmas songs.

Santas were welcomed over the finish line with a special 25th anniversary medal and festive treat at the end of the run.

Kiley Tellam, events fundraiser for CHSW, said: “We were so pleased to bring Santas on the Run to Launceston once again this year. There was such a lovely atmosphere on Sunday and we are so grateful to everyone who took part in the event and to all those who helped make it such a success.

“It was amazing to see 120 Santas getting together for some festive fun as well as supporting us at this special time of year.

“Thanks also need to go to Dave Gordon and Pete Cooper, Matt Luxton, Launceston Town Band, Launceston Voluntary First Aid Service and everyone who volunteered and marshalled at the event.”

Money raised will be used by CHSW’s children’s hospice in mid-Cornwall; Little Harbour.

The hospice provides short stays, respite, palliative care and end of life care 365 days a year and is a home from home to children and families facing very uncertain futures.

Little Harbour will be hosting children and families over the Christmas and New Year period.