DOZENS of Santas faced the elements for an annual Christmas fun run in aid of a North-East hospice.

More than 80 people signed up for the Butterwick Hospice Care Santa Run at Hardwick Park, near Sedgefield, and despite heavy rain on the day, there were smiles all round.

The youngest ‘runner’ was Esmée Spencer at just four months old, who took part in her pram with her mum, Katie Peacock, and her dad, Dan Spencer, doing the pushing.

They said: “Doing the Santa Run every year has become a bit of a family tradition, and it means we can raise a bit of money for charity at Christmastime. Butterwick is a great cause – everyone should get involved.”

The annual event, which raises money to help terminally ill people and their loved ones at Christmas, is a festive favourite in the charity’s fundraising calendar.

The 1.7km route winds through the beautiful lakeside woodland of Hardwick Park. Runners have the option of doing two laps, and surprisingly – given the weather – most took the chance to go round twice.

This year also saw the introduction of the Butterwick Star Stroll, a slower-paced, more accessible walk.

Elaine Dunning, community and events fundraiser, said: “It really was wonderful to see so many people turn up to take part and help the hospice, especially given how atrocious the weather was.

“The Santa Run is one of those events that is really lovely to organise because it’s a big community event that lots of local people who love to take part it.

“Because it’s become something of a Christmas tradition for many families, it’s one we’re always determined to hold, come rain or shine. Adding the Star Stroll this year also meant that younger children and disabled people can join in the fun more easily.

“The weather was definitely against us this year, but I think everyone had great fun anyway.

“We want to say a massive ‘thank you’ to everyone who came out to take part, as well as to our event partners Inspiral Cycles and LJJ Ltd. We look forward to better weather next year!”