Fabulously festive fun run

Ashton Gate hosts a fabulously festive fun run!

Children’s Hospice South West’s spectacular Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle returned to Bristol at the weekend but at a brand new venue – Ashton Gate Stadium.

Nearly 400 people took part in the festive 2k fun run in support of the charity’s Charlton Farm children’s hospice in Wraxall on Sunday 5 December.

After being held virtually last year due to the pandemic, organisers were delighted to see supporters back in-person helping them to raise some Christmas cheer in their festive gear! “Our supporters did us proud during the pandemic, raising thousands of pounds across the region by taking part in virtual Santa runs with their families and friends at home,” said CHSW Event Fundraiser Kayley Waller. “But it was amazing to come together again and experience the atmosphere of an in-person event. There were a whole host of people making the day one to remember, including choirs, drummers and festive characters, and participants were thrilled to be able to run along the edge of the pitch at Ashton Gate!” Santa suits weren’t provided this year to help reduce the impact on the environment, instead a freestyle element was introduced asking participants to be as creative as they’d like with their own festive costumes – and they didn’t disappoint - there were elves, grinches, penguins and snowmen running around the stadium!

Kayley said: “It was a brilliant festive family day out – the perfect way to get everyone in the mood for Christmas and help raise thousands of pounds for Charlton Farm.” If you missed out on this event, but would still to take part in Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle in your own way, please visit www.chsw. org.uk/virtualsantas for more information.

Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle was kindly sponsored by The Exeter.