Super Santas set off on fun run

IF you saw a herd of bearded red joggers racing past your window on Saturday you'd be forgiven for thinking your mulled wine was a bit on the strong side.

I'm sure it would take most people a few gins to agree to running through Barnstaple dressed like that in broad daylight. But us 200 willing Santa-clad runners who pounded the streets of Barnstaple were part of the sixth annual Santa Run, brilliantly organised by the North Devon Hospice.

And the organisers could not have asked for a better result — and the participants, a better atmosphere.

It must have been quite a sight as Katy Daniels instructed 200 identical Santas to dance around comically and clap our hands in a "warm up". Despite the scary-looking rain clouds lingering overhead, we eagerly obliged.

But — almost as though Christmas had come early — the clouds parted and an electrifying 10 to one countdown on the stroke of 1.30pm set us on our journey.

And if the sun creeping out as we tackled the Taw Bridge wasn't enough, the event also raised an estimated £6,000 for the cause.

That glowing charitable feeling clearly embodied all the runners, coupled with an almost touchable sense of camaraderie — not only from the racers, but from the hordes of drivers who beeped their horns in encouragement.

It was also a proud moment for the Hospice when shoppers paused in their festive duties to applaud the exceptional Barnstaple Marching Youth Band who lead the parade of Santas through the High Street.

We even had our very own reindeers, as Betsy and Lottie — two Shetland Ponies — dressed up for the adventure.

But from Lilico's, it was game on.

Serious runners raced forward, with Keith Shapland claiming the top spot, and David Cutler and John Mortimer clinching silver and bronze.

And those who were content not to be on the score card clutched on to their hats, spreading Christmas greetings to those they passed.

The North Devon Hospice, said: "The support the hospice has received via the Santa Fun Run has been astounding.

"Thanks to all of our supporters and runners for helping to make it such a successful day."

And to top it all off, a motley crew of volunteers waited with hot dogs and chips to boost the energy levels on return.

Christmas really had come early — and I'm already dusting off my Santa's hat for next year's event.

● The North Devon Hospice would like to thank those who helped: Barnstaple Rotary Link, Katy Daniels from Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness, Trophyman, Heart FM, Barnstaple Town Football Club, Barnstaple Musical Comedy and Dramatic Society, Barnstaple Rugby Club and sponsors BJs Value House, Apex Sports, and Exmoor Fascias.

● If you are interested in helping with the fundraising call 01271 344 248.