SANTAS, pantomime dames, and a pair of giant puddings were out in full force today for one of the town's most popular festive fundraising events.

The Chase the Pudding fun run took place on Weymouth Beach this morning at 11am to raise funds for the Will Mackaness Trust.

The 5k event - starting from the Pavillion to the groyne at Greenhill and back again - also featured cast members of the Christmas panto Aladdin.

Hundreds of people donning Santa outfits turned up to the seafront on a cold December morning to take part in the challenge and to 'chase the pudding'.

Two people dressed as Mr and Mrs Pudding were chased along the beach by the crowd of Santas. The winners were the fastest male and female Santa to cross the finish line who will then be given the honour of being Mr and Mrs Pudding the following year.

A Chase the Elf race for children under 14 started five minutes after the Chase the Pudding race began and involved a 2km race to the Pier Bandstand and back.

The event is raising as much cash as possible for the Trust in memory of Will Mackaness, who lost his battle with cancer in 2008 - funds raised will help youngsters learn to sail.

The man and woman to cross the finish line first this year were George Scott, aged 27, now living in London grew up in Weymouth, and Heather de Freitas from Singapore.

Dorset Echo: George Scott, 27, now living in London grew up in Weymouth, was one of the winners of Chase the pudding and will have the honour of being Mr Pudding next year. Picture: Marie-Claire AlfonsoGeorge Scott, 27, now living in London grew up in Weymouth, was one of the winners of Chase the pudding and will have the honour of being Mr Pudding next year. Picture: Marie-Claire Alfonso

Heather was visiting friends and family in Weymouth from Singapore and unfortunately will not be able to take part as Mrs Pudding next year, so George Scott's sister, Charlie Scott, will be taking her place.