Over 1100 people across the south-west took part in Children's Hospice South West's (CHSW) Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle virtual event at the weekend.

They have raised over £75,000 for the local children's hospice charity with donations still coming in.

CHSW's three annual Santas on the Run events, held at locations across the region including at Eden, were turned virtual this year due to coronavirus restrictions, but this did not deter people from getting involved.

The ask was simple; choose a route, a distance and a festive outfit and raise funds for the charity at the same time. The event was supported by Community Partner Whirlwind Sports.

With families, sports clubs and businesses all getting involved in their own way, festive cheer certainly was spread across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset.

There were many Santas, elves and other festive characters to be seen on local walking, running and cycle routes.

Betty Stogs was spotted in Truro with her Cousin Jacks and Rosemellin School in Camborne was one of many schools joining in with a run around their sports track.

Kiley Pearce, Events Fundraiser from CHSW, said:

"We were overwhelmed with the number of people that took part in this event and it was fantastic to see them all posting their photos on social media showing how they had made the event their own.

"We had everything from Santas playing tennis to a running nativity scene; people really got creative and it is humbling to see the amount of money raised to support local children and their families."

Money raised from this event will help CHSW to continue providing vital care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families via their three children's hospices including Little Harbour in St Austell.

The charity has adapted its care model this year to incorporate Hospice, Home and Virtual; acknowledging the need to stay in touch with families and support them in new ways through these uncertain times.

Click here to see more from Children's Hospice South West.

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