Thanks to some jolly Santas putting on their running shoes, Julia’s House, the Corfe Mullen children’s hospice will benefit to the tune of £350.

A crisp, sunny, morning saw nearly 50 Santas assemble at Allenbourn Middle School preparing to tackle either a 2K or 5K course of their choice in Wimborne Rotary’s Great Santa Fun Run. After a short warm-up session, the runners were readied for the mass start by Wimborne Minster town crier, Chris Brown.

With part of the route taking Santas through Wimborne town centre, runners were encouraged by the public who applauded and cheered them on. The route marshals included members of the 1st Wimborne Scout troop who also provided hot drinks and gave out mince pies as competitors completed the course.

Wimborne Rotary president, Jan Baseley, said: “We thank all of the runner Santas and marshals who turned up to support Julia’s House. All runners safely and successfully completed the course, and we hope to make this run a regular annual feature for Wimborne.”