MORE than 400 Santas took on the annual fun run on Sunday which looks set to raise more than £15,000 for Katharine House Hospice.

The fundraisers, many of whom were running in memory of loved ones, assembled on a crisp, sunny morning in Spiceball Park, joining either a 4km run or a 1km walk in aid of the local hospice.

Banbury MP Victoria Prentis also supported the event, posing for pictures with the Santas beforehand and praising the 'brilliant atmosphere' at the start line.

She was one of the fortunate few to witness the unusual sight of a sea of red and white-dressed dancers attempting a salsa as part of the warm up.

Relative normality quickly resumed as the 400-strong herd began the run around the park.

The hospice revealed after the event that the seventh annual run looked set to raise more than £15,000 to support people facing life-limiting illnesses.

Chris Higgins, communications officer at the Hospice, thanked the hundreds of people who took part to raise money.

He said: "The Santa Fun Run is a fantastic family morning out, and the atmosphere on Sunday was brilliant.

We were so pleased to see so many families coming together to raise money for their local hospice.

People take part in the event for many reasons; some enjoy a morning out with the family, some run for fitness, and many of those who signed up know someone who was cared for at the Hospice, and run in memory of them.

He added: "On behalf of everyone at Katharine House, I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who came out despite the cold to take part."

To donate to the charity, which provides support for those with life-limiting illnesses and their families, or to explore takin on your own challenge for the hospice go to khh.org.uk