HUNDREDS of festive fundraisers donned Santa Claus costumes and jogged through the streets of Ipswich – raising thousands of pounds for charity in the process.

More than 250 people took part in the 3km Ipswich Santa Run for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) yesterday.

Orgajnisers think the event has raised about �10,000 for EACH, which provides care and support for children with life-threatening conditions and their families.

Patsy Johnson-Cisse, of EACH’s fundraising team, said: “It all went really well – we are over the moon.

“It was a really good family event and it was good to see local people raising money for a local hospice.”

The Santa Run has taken place in a variety of locations over the years including Christchurch Park and the Waterfront.

This year’s run started outside the Town Hall at 10.30am and snaked its way through Ipswich before finishing at the Cornhill.

Mrs Johnson-Cisse added: “All the Christmas lights and the Christmas tree just added to the occasion – it looked really good.

“As everyone started to run, people lined the street on either side outside of Tower Ramparts and they were cheering them on.

“As they got to the end of the run at Lloyd’s Avenue, the general public all crowded around and were cheering them on at the finish line which was really special.”

An array of people pulled on St Nick costumes for yesterday’s event, including supporters of the charity and those who have benefited from the work it carries out.

About 50 volunteers also gave up their Sunday morning to help ensure the event was a success.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part, everyone who sponsored runners, the volunteers and all of the people involved,” added Mrs Johnson-Cisse.