Hundreds of Santas from across Bracknell Forest braved the cold and rain to take part in this year's annual Santa Dash.

On Sunday, December 10, the charity event attracted around 650 dashers to Swinley Forest to support Thames Hospice during the festive season.

The charity fun run involves participants dressing up in a range of spectacular Christmas costumes and setting off either on a 2km, 5km, or 10km run, walk or jog.

Many runners included people whose loved ones received ‘outstanding care’ by the hospice in their last few months.

The charity provides complex, specialist palliative and end-of-life care for people with life-limiting conditions as well as support for family.

James Blanchard along with his two children Katie and William raised over £800 for their participation in the 10km route in memory of their Mum Sonia.

He said: “Sonia was in Thames Hospice earlier this year and they looked after her amazingly, so we are here to support Thames Hospice. We will keep coming (to the Santa Dash) every year.”

This year dashers had the option to wear a Santa suit or channel their Christmas creativity and craft their own festive costumes.

Many families even brought along their four legged friends which they also dressed up.

The events fundraiser, Emma Andrews said: “The local community are always eager to take part in our Santa Dash as it’s a great way to kick start the festive season.

“Thank you to everyone who dressed up, braved the wet and wild weather and fundraised for us. The support we received has been truly amazing and our wonderful supporters have raised over £25,000 for the Hospice.

“The day wouldn’t have been a success without our dedicated volunteers and staff who carried out essential duties, including registering our Santa dashers and marshalling around the forest. We couldn’t have done it without you!”

The festive dashers were greeted at the finish line in Swinley Forest with some delicious refreshments.