MORE than a hundred runners donned red suits and snowy white beards as part of this year’s Weldmar Santa Run.

Men, women and children of all ages took part in the two-mile run around the streets of Dorchester on Sunday morning.

This was the fifth Santa Fun Run for Weldmar, an event which has contributed £16,000 to help support patients and families across Dorset.

Weldmar also held a Christmas market at Joseph Weld Hospice, featuring mulled wine, bratwurst, and Christmas gifts.

Katie Slade, events fundraiser at Weldmar, said preparations had gone really well.

She said: “We have got a fantastic turnout for the Santa Run.

“We had 140 people sign up before the event which is the most we’ve ever had.

“I’m very pleased with the turnout.

“It’s huge. We have a massive target to raise to keep the service running and this is a brilliant opportunity to get everyone in the festive spirit and raise money for our service as well.”