Over 140 santas of all shapes and sizes were out in force at Top Barn Activity Centre raising sackfulls of cash for St Richard’s Hospice.
The red suited santas climbed on their bikes or donned running shoes to take on the Santathon challenge on a four or eight mile route around the paths and fields of the centre in Holt Heath, near Worcester.
There were lots of smiles and cheers in the sunshine as the santas were given a warm up routine led by British Military Fitness expert Jason Field.
Lizzie Brazier, Community Fundraiser for St Richard’s Hospice said; “It was a great atmosphere with lots of families and supporters of St Richard’s. Seeing everyone in their santa suits got everyone into the Christmas spirit. We are grateful to all those who took part, either cycling or running and we hope to raise around £5,000 in sponsorship towards our care.”
Miss Brazier also thanked all the volunteers who helped the event run smoothly on the day.
St Richard’s Hospice provides free specialist palliative care for patients living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and supports their families. Each year the hospice team supports over 2,500 patients and family members in Worcestershire.
Patients are cared for in Day Hospice, the 17-bed In-patient Unit or in their own homes by a specialist professional team as well as many trained volunteers.
In the In-patient Unit specialist staff are on hand 24 hours a day to manage patients’ symptoms and where, if appropriate, patients may spend the last few days of life in comfort and dignity. St Richard’s is an independent charity and is grateful for all donations to help them to continue their work.