HUNDREDS of people donned Santa suits for Carlisle’s third Santa Dash on Sunday morning.

Nearly 450 runners laced up in the festive outfits for the 5k run around the city at 10.30am.

Kicking off in Bitts Park, the route ventures past Hardwicke Circus, the Sands Centre and along Georgian Way, before returning through the park and ending up at the Market Cross Monument.

The 5k event was followed by the 2k fun run an hour later, which saw 400 people, including parents and their children head past Carlisle Castle and the Cathedral before finishing in the city centre.

Organiser Claire Allen, from Sport in Action, said: “It’s a very family orientated event.

“Again, we’re hoping to raise as much money as we can for Jigsaw, Cumbria’s children’s hospice.

“They are a great charity and it is a fantastic cause for children at Christmas.

“In the last two years, we have raised a total of £17,500 for the charity, which is amazing.

“Every single penny, apart from purchasing the Santa suits and the medals, goes to them.”

Water and mince pies have been donated for each runner involved in the event.

Claire added: “The number of people who have sponsored us has been brilliant.

“The city council has been great, they have let us use the parks, the city centre - everyone has came on board as they know its for a fantastic charity.

“Pirelli have donated some cash, GS Lowrey design have created our posters, flags and designs for the website, all free of charge.

“A huge thank you to Story who donated the mince pies, and Greggs who gave us sausage rolls for our marshals, plus Andidrain and Carlisle Brass who also donated cash.

"Andidrain have sponsored us every year.

“Thanks for everyone who has donated and supported the event, including DH Runners and Carlisle Tri-Club.”

Money raised from the Santa Dash helps to run vital services for the young children across Cumbria who have terminal illnesses or life-limiting conditions and their families who rely on the support of Jigsaw.