THE Sunday morning drizzle of rain did not deter almost 250 Father Christmases ready for the first ever Children's Hospice South West (CHSW) two-kilometre Santa Run in Launceston.

The town square was filled with festive songs from Launceston Primary School choir and some lively samba music from the school Samba Band getting everyone in the spirit as they donned their red suits.

The square filled up with friends, colleagues and entire families, including dogs dressed for the occasion, who were all getting ready for the run.

After a warm up by Matt Luxton, of FA Fitness, and a countdown, it was on your marks, get set — and Santas were on the Run.

For the full report, and a round up of the news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.