Record number take part in Stamford Santa Fun Run in Burghley Park
It was a sea of red and white at the weekend as a record number of participants took part in the Stamford Santa Fun Run.
The event on Sunday, December 9, which was organised by the Rotary Club of Stamford Burghley, saw 1,340 runners participate.
Organiser Martin Webster said between £13,000 and £15,000 had been raised from "surplus funds on the day".
This is in addition to what the runners have raised, a figure which will be made available later on once tallied up.
The money will be donated to various charities including Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, Phoebe Research, Mind in Memory of Wendy, Rotary Charities and organisations nominated by runners who obtained personal sponsors.
"A record number of teams signed up to run along with a record number of generous sponsors," said Martin.
"We need to say a big thank you to BGL, Anne Corder Recruitment, the Falcon Hotel in Uppingham and the many other local sponsors."
He said the event could not have been staged successfully without the help of the many volunteers who gave up their time.
"Stamford Lincolnshire ACF were brilliant with the parking and the Wildcats Theatre School delivered an excellent performance before the start."
Martin also thanked Paul Johnson for the "wonderful" job he did giving commentary for the event.
He said Copthill School entered with 155 runners, which was the largest team involved.
"Last year we had about 875 people register to take part and only 500 turned up because we had four inches of snow.
"This year we had a record number of registrations and when you see 1,300 runners with smiles on their faces you know they've had a good time," he said.
"It was lovely to see everyone smiling and enjoying themselves.
"We're grateful to the people of Stamford for their support."
John Sutcliffe, President of the Rotary Club, also thanked "our generous sponsors" and the the volunteers who took part.
Caz Dolby, owner of Wildcats said selected students had performed solos on the stage before the event.
Amelia-Jayne Thompson-Collins, 10, from Ketton and who attends Ketton C of E Primary school sang ‘Never Fall in Love with an Elf’ from the hit musical ‘Elf’.
Alongside Amelia, her sister Megan-Jayne, 12, from Bourne Grammar School sang leading solos in two of the songs.
Megan said: "It was an enjoyable experience to be part of the Wildcats team to perform at the Santa Run on Sunday. Great fun to sing to everybody present."
Also performing was Saskia Haley, 10 from Oakham and a student at Brooke Hill Academy. She performed ‘I believe’ from the famous Christmas film ‘Polar Express’.
"It is always a pleasure to support this event every year and entertain the Santa’s before the run," said Caz.
"The warm up is always a highlight in the Wildcats calendar and it was fabulous to see so many of those involved join in and be part of the fun."
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