The spirit of the people of Plymouth was once again confirmed this week with the grand total of last year’s Santa Fun Run being revealed. Over six hundred Santas took to the historic streets of the Barbican in early December raising £5,000 which will be split between local charities Shekinah and Jeremiah’s Journey.
Plymouth Waterfront Partnership (PWP) supported the returning Santa Fun Run with a brand-new route. Organised by Saltram Rotary Club, the run (or walk) included both a 2.5km and 5km route taking in the city’s historic quarter, waterfront and spectacular views.
Jon Walton and Kim Downer from the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said:
“We were delighted to host this wonderful event in the beautiful waterfront in Britain’s Ocean City. The sight of over 600 Santas running through our beautiful historic streets and the stunning Plymouth Hoe was something to behold! It was a real pleasure working with Saltram Rotary and to be able to raise so much money for two wonderful, local charities was simply amazing – thanks to all of you for your generosity! Huge thanks to South West Highways (John Lee) for all of his help too.”
John Naismith, Jeremiah’s Journey:
Jeremiah’s Journey were thrilled to have been selected alongside Shekinah as a chosen charity for the Plymouth Santa Fun Run 2023. Being a part of the event has been an absolute joy throughout. This culminated in a wonderful presentation evening. We are incredibly grateful to Saltram Rotary for all their hard work that has resulted in a fantastic £2,500 being donated to support the bereaved children, young people and families that use our service in and around Plymouth.Thank you so much.”
Kristy Winters, Shekinah:
“Shekinah was immensely pleased to have been selected as a beneficiary of the Plymouth Santa Fun Run. It was heartwarming to reunite with everyone and receive the incredible news that an impressive £2500 was raised for Shekinah. This generous contribution will significantly aid in the essential services both charities
provide, underscoring the event’s impact and the community’s unwavering support.”
Roger Punch, Saltram Rotary Club:
“It was exciting to have been able to revive the Plymouth Santa Fun Run, with Plymouth Waterfront Partnership’s invaluable help, and as a result to have been able to donate £5,000 to the massively deserving local charities of Shekinah and Jeremiah’s Journey. The support that we received from local businesses and organisations was exceptionally encouraging. We are now already working towards this year’s Santa Fun Run in the same venue, which will take place on Sunday 8th December!”
The Santa Fun Run is just one example of the many ways Plymouth residents and PWP businesses come together to support their community. The event’s success is a testament to the city’s generosity and festive spirit; Saltram Rotary and PWP will ensure that this year’s event will continue to build on the success of last year.

