Santa makes hispresence felt atcharity fun run

The going was tough and wet underfoot around the racecourse on Sundayas the estimated 250 Father Christmases covered a mile at their own pace.

Their ages ranged from two years to 70 but they had one goal in mind '“ to help St Wilfrid's Hospice at Chichester.

Hospice fundraising and publicity co-ordinator Jill Dennison said: 'It was an absolutely fantastic event. I hope we will have raised 5,000 from it.

'It was so nice to see families enjoying themselves and having a morning out together.'

Prizes were awarded for the funniest outfit, widest girth and biggest grin among other essential Santa features.

The merry Santas were led around the course by Wave 105 radio presenter Steve Power and sent on their way by a fellow Father Christmas, Erik Jack.

The fun-filled event was the second of its kind to be held by the hospice.

Next year's has already been booked for Sunday, November 23.