SANTA’S ‘reindeer’ were seen running around in one nursery yesterday to raise money for Butterwick Hospice.

That’s as children from House of Eden nursery, in Aycliffe Village, took part in the charity’s annual sponsored reindeer run.

The youngsters, aged two to five, decorated their own reindeer masks which were provided by the hospice before completing their run in the school yard.

The event was also made more special as one of the youngsters taking part was two-year-old Toby War, Mary Butterwick’s great-grandson.

The nursery’s deputy manager, Kimberley Dobson, said the children had loved the event and were excited to see how much they had raised. Toby’s father, Stephen Ward, who also attended the event, said: “It’s nice to see the children jumping in and having fun.”

Milly Toner, of the hospice, thanked all the schools who are taking part and said the event usually helps raise £10,000 for the charity.

To get involved call 01388-603003.