SANTA dressed runners raised money for a good cause during a dart across Evesham.

St Richard's Hospice Santa Dash took place on a cold bright morning at The Valley, with 350 people dressed as Santa running five kilometres, helping to raise £8,000 for the hospice.

Husband and wives, friends, entire families, dogs and even babies donned the famous red suit of Father Christmas and made it around The Valley’s shopping mall and onto their 125 acres of countryside.

Ria Simons from St Richard’s Hospice said: “We are hugely grateful to all the Santa festive fundraisers who turned out to kick start the Christmas season.

"The atmosphere was very jolly, and it’s just such a cheery sight to see Santas of all ages enjoying themselves for a great cause.

"All the funds raised will help us continue to offer our free care and support to people living with a life-threatening illness, making every moment count.”

Phil Maclean, marketing manager at The Valley Evesham, said ‘We are thrilled with the turnout for the Santa Dash this year, the beautiful chilly morning certainly added to the festive mood amongst the participants.

"We are so grateful to St Richard’s Hospice for allowing us to host the event, and hope lots of money is raised for such an important charity to the local area”.

The run took place on Sunday December 4.