Sunday, December 12, 2010

All for a good Claus: Thousands of Santas take part in charity fun runs across Britain

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Ho ho ho: People dressed in Santa Claus outfits jog together during The Great Scottish Santa Run in Edinburgh


Thousands of people dressed up as Santa for charity fun runs today - turning town and city centres into a sea of red and white across the country.

Runners from Aberdeen in Scotland through to Southsea, Hampshire, on the south coast took part in the charity events.

Even a week of snowfall did not stop the annual race in Edinburgh city centre where an estimated 800 runners young and old took part.


Sea of Santa: A woman jumps in the air as she takes part in the fun race


The races happened in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Oxford and Southsea - and there was one in bathing costumes in Budapest, Hungary as well.

The 1.5 kilometre sprint, walk or toddle in Edinburgh was held to raise cash for the children's charity When You Wish Upon A Star.

Leading the festive fancy dress run was Mark Cooper, who ran 50 marathons in 56 days for charity earlier this year.

The weekend thaw meant runners were able to take to the streets but a similar event schedule to take place in Glasgow was cancelled earlier this week because of safety concerns.

Margaret Rowarth, Scottish appeals manager for When You Wish Upon A Star, said: 'This event has a magical atmosphere and people are always so charitable.


Christmas race: A father and son take part in Edinburgh


Xmas spirit: Two members of security staff dance together before race


'The support has been incredible and all money raised will go to grant the wishes of Scottish children in 2011.'

Jackie Gott, managing director with event producer She’s Gott It! said: 'This is a fantastic event that all the family, young and old, can take part in. There’s a wonderful atmosphere throughout and it’s amazing to see so many people come together in the name of charity.

'It’s a fantastic spectacle, whether you’re watching or participating, and we are absolutely thrilled with the turnout of Santas and elves today.”


Race: Runners charge towards the finish in Edinburgh today


Margaret Rowarth, Scottish appeals manager for When You Wish Upon A Star, said the event was very successful.

'This event has a magical atmosphere and people are always so charitable. The support has been incredible and all money raised will go to grant the wishes of Scottish Children in 2011,' she said.

'Sincere thanks are due not only to the City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh’s Christmas producers, She’s Gott It!, but also to the dozens of volunteers from Telford College who helped on the day.'


source : dailymail

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