Did you spot Santa in Bristol on Sunday?
Over 1200 people descended on Bristol yesterday for the Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) annual Santas on the Run.
Waterfront square was a sea of red as adults, children, prams and dogs dressed festively and made their way round the harbourside raising Christmas cheer in their Santa gear!
Freddie de Gennaro started the run. He and his family are supported by CHSW’s Charlton Farm hospice. His mum, Justine, spoke to the runners before they set off. She said: Santa’s on the run always gives me a big lump in my throat - watching a sea of thousands of Santas old and young all coming together to raise money for an amazing place they’ve probably never visited. They just do it because they care for the cause. It’s extra special.”
The festive event hopes to raise £45,000 for the charity which supports over 220 families from Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas.
Justine said of the hospice: “To know Freddie is really well cared for is so reassuring. Hospitals are a sterile environment that it’s lovely to know you can come here where it’s calm and peaceful and you’re so supported, it’s like having a big, comfortable warm blanket around you. People are here to help and hug; it’s wonderful.”
You can read Freddie and Justine's story in full here.
Santa’s on the run always gives me a big lump in my throat - watching a sea of thousands of Santas old and young all coming together to raise money for an amazing place they’ve probably never visited. They just do it because they care for the cause. It’s extra special