A YOUNG gymnast with serious health issues officially started the Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Santa Dash last weekend.

Arun Corcoran, from Wokingham, first became a patient of the children's hospital when he was six weeks old for a kidney condition.

Although he faces daily medical challenges and will eventually need a transplant, Arun remains incredibly active and was recently made a TeamGym British Champion gymnast.

On December 3 he sounded the starting klaxon at the annual Father Christmas run in Clapham Common, prompting thousands of red suit-clad joggers to set off on a five or ten kilometre route.

Arun’s dad, Simon Corcoran said: “If it wasn’t for the brilliant staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Arun wouldn’t be here today.

"Taking part in this event is a thank you to the hospital for all they’ve done for Arun and what they’ll continue to do.

"This is our third year running the London Santa Dash and it’s an amazing sight to see, thousands of Santas all running together, it’s really special and makes you feel part of something bigger, it makes you realise that you’re not alone.”

Money raised by dashing Santas goes towards the hospital’s dedicated play team who design activities for children to aid their treatment, recovery and understanding of their illness, making their hospital experience as stress-free as possible.

To donate to GOSH, click here.