Hundreds of Santas filled Plymouth’s waterfront on Sunday 3 December to take part in the Santa Fun Run – a previously popular event in the city’s calendar which returned for the first time since 2019 this year and with a new route.
The event, organised by Saltram Rotary Club and supported by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, brought together runners, walkers, and families to raise funds for two local charities, Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah.
Despite the threat of rain on the morning of the run (which thankfully held off) the atmosphere was warm and festive, with Santas of all shapes and sizes gathering on Southside Street for the 11 am start. The event offered two route options: a 2.5 km and a 5 km loop, taking in the Barbican, the Hoe and waterfront.
Jon Walton, CEO, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership:
“We were thrilled with the turnout of the returning Santa Fun Run, nearly six hundred Santas all walking and running to raise awareness and much needed funds for two local charities, Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. I really enjoyed running it too, the route was just lovely and it was great to see so many people cheering us on!
Feedback from participants has been hugely positive with the new waterfront route particularly popular. We now hope that the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership can continue to support the run in the coming years – not only is it a fun, community spirited event to be a part of it, but it’s also another event that supports our local shops, businesses and services within the bid area.”
Roger Punch, Saltram Rotary Club:
“The new venue proved hugely popular, with the sea of excited Santas swarming around the
beautiful Barbican and The Hoe. We are indebted to Plymouth Waterfront Partnership for their help in facilitating the event, and for the encouragement and support that we received from businesses there. Sponsorship money is still coming in – we eagerly anticipate finding out how much that has been raised for the two, very deserving, Plymouth charities.”
The final total from the Santa Fun Run for the two local charities will not be known until early next year as participants collect sponsorship money following the event, but it is expected that thousands of pounds will have been raised.
To donate to Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah please visit https://plymouthsantafunrun.co.uk/donating-fundraising
