Running Santas raise over £24k for the Myton Hospices

The Santa Dash saw hundreds of adults, children, babies and dogs dress up as Father Christmas, or his trusty reindeer Rudolph, and run (or be taken for a pushchair ride) 5km from the Warwick hospice in Myton Lane to St Nicholas Park, round the park twice, and back to the hospice.

The weather may have been cold and wet, but that did nothing to dampen the cheery spirits of those taking part, the hard-working volunteers and staff who were running the event and the non-running crowds who turned out to support it.

Before the race, personal trainer Phil Sims led a mass warm-up, while princesses Elsa and Anna from the hit Disney film Frozen turned up to perform songs. There were also activities, including a Christmas quiz, ‘selfie’ station and a ‘best dressed dog’ competition judged by town mayor Mandy Littlejohn.

Refreshments were provided by Red Banger Catering and local bakery Margaret Hall Ltd.

Myton’s events manager Sarah Stallard said: “We are thrilled with the turnout for this year’s Santa Dash. We would like to say a very big thank you to all our supporters and volunteers for getting behind the event and making it such a success! The money raised will make a huge difference to our patients and their families.”

Myton would also like to thank this year’s event sponsor, Western Power Distribution.