Thousands turn the seafront red for the Santa Fun Run

Those taking part in the Santa Fun Run ranged from families to seasoned joggers, dogs and even a sleigh being dragged by four people dressed up as reindeer.

Around 2,500 people joined in the fun yesterday, either running one mile, a 5k, a 10k or taking on the Snowflake Challenge by running all three to raise funds for The Rowans Hospice and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

A festive atmosphere was present on Eastney Esplanade for the one-mile run as the morning sun warmed up the runners.

Norman Ellis, 61, from Horndean, was running along with his son Tom, 32.

‘It’s a pretty amazing sight to see this many people running alongside you all dressed as Santa.

‘We’re pretty seasoned runners so we’re taking on the Snowflake Challenge.

‘There’s definitely a bit of different feel when running in a Santa outfit, but it feels good!’

Sue Harrison from Havant and Lynn Thomson from Langstone took on the one-mile run together.

Sue, who was running the event for the first time, said: ‘It’s been absolutely fantastic. You see so many families here all doing the race together for such a good cause and you get such a great feeling from doing it.

‘It’s really wonderful just to be a part of it. I’m so glad I did it and I would definitely encourage more people to take part next year.’

People of all ages took part in the runs, with some donning green or blue suits while others dressed up as elves or reindeer.

The routes were different for each race, with runners mostly heading up and down Clarence Esplanade and Eastney Esplanade.

Rob Hazell, from Horndean, said: ‘We’ve had stunning weather this morning and it has all looked just brilliant.

‘It’s a great family event and it is just a bit of exercise for a really great cause.’

He added: ‘It is surreal to be running with so many Santas!’