Hundreds of Santas descended on Kensington Gardens

Three hundred Santas descended on one of central London’s most spectacular royal parks, helping to raise around £20,000 for hospice care.

The Santa Fun Run that took place on Sunday 11 December helped raise vital funds for Help the Hospices, the charity for hospice care.  

Participants sported full Santa suits – complete with a beard, belt and hat - to run, jog or walk the 5km route through Kensington Gardens.

Katy Sprake, fundraising events manager at Help the Hospices, said:

“The Santa Fun Run has been an unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas in central London, while making a difference to seriously ill people and their families across the UK.”

Hospices help families to stay together over Christmas and throughout the year by providing care in terminally ill patients’ own homes, as well as in hospices.

The Santa Fun Run kicked off with a warm up before the Santas completed the 5km route. Participants enjoyed festive music and activities, including a ‘Chase the Reindeer’ game. All Santas were rewarded with tasty festive treats and a medal at the finish line.

After the run, participants were perfectly located to carry on the festivities in Kensington or cross the park into the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.