Did you see the sea of Santas, elves and fairies take over the beach?

The ‘iconic’ Chase the Pudding event took place on Weymouth Beach yesterday, and was hailed a huge success.

Raising funds for the Will Mackaness Trust, the fun run – which marked its 10th anniversary this year – brightened up the rainy day with people of all ages getting into the spirit.

Winner Matt Papa, 19 from Weymouth, beat all three puddings to the finish line.

Matt, who only signed up for the competition the day before the event, said: “I’ve never ran so fast after a pudding before!

“It was hard, especially when you get to the pebbles on the beach, but it was a good, fun race in an amazing place and I did it for a great charity.”

Puddings Luke Voss, 21, and Harry Buttle, 18, are previous race winners.

Luke, the fastest pudding, said: “It was really hard; we had some fast guys chasing us. Well done to Matt. It was really good fun, especially with more puddings. It’s a great event for charity and it’s good for Weymouth as it gets kids into sport and being outside and active. It’s grown into an iconic event – there are so many people here.”

Runner Neil Price, 55 from Weymouth, takes part every year. “It’s good fun,” he said.

“I like to raise money for the Will Mackaness Trust. It’s a lovely day, so what else do we want to do but chase a pudding down the beach?”

Runners Susan O’Flanagan and Catherine Saggerson took on the pudding alongside fellow members of running clubs Weymouth St Paul’s Harriers and Egdon Heath Harriers.

Susan said: “We came to support the Will Mackaness charity and to promote running. I’ve ran every year bar one and its good fun.”

Catherine added: “It’s great fun and all for a fantastic charity.”

Kim Fudge and Mel Ward, known for their charity carpool karaoke videos, have chased the pudding for several years and show no signs of stopping.

Kim said: “It’s supporting a fantastic local charity in memory of an incredible young man and that’s what Christmas is all about.

“I’ve even roped my daughter and son-in-law into it now.” Mel added:

“The event is a really good, fun event supporting a fantastic local charity and that’s what it’s all about.”

A little elf went on the run too during the children’s race, which was won by 12-year-old Isla Worthington.

Pam Govier, Will Mackaness Trust director, said: “I’m pleased it’s gone well and we’ve had a great turnout.

“Every year it just amazes me and it’s breathtaking to see the runners take over the beach. There’s a nice atmosphere and everyone is just so happy.”

Funds raised will help provide more watersport opportunities to youngsters in Weymouth and Portland.