RUNNERS in Basingstoke put their best foot forward to take part in this year's festive 3k run which has raised more than £9,000 for St Michael’s Hospice.
St Michael’s Hospice, an independent charity, hosted its annual Reindeer Run in Basingstoke on Sunday, December 3.
More than 280 people gathered in Festival Place for the annual Reindeer Run some wearing onesies, jumpers and even festive costumes.
Becky Legate, events manager at the hospice, said: "Reindeer Run is one of our most popular events of the year, and it is such a joy to bring festive spirit whist raising awareness and vital funds for the hospice.
READ MORE: St Michael's Hospice reindeer runs in Basingstoke and Alton
"We understand that Christmas is a difficult time for many, so the Basingstoke community’s generosity really means a lot. Thank you!".
Before the run, supporters donned their antlers and took part in an energetic warm-up with fitness instructor, Tanya Perkins before Festival Place’s Santa counted them down to the start of the race.
Families danced, pranced, walked, and ran through the shopping centre and out to Eastrop Park, where a live band of volunteers were playing under the gazebo.
St Michael’s Hospice staff and volunteers applauded every participant and awarded them a well-deserved medal and chocolate as they crossed the finish line.
Together, participants and supporters raised over £9,500 for the hospice
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St Michael’s Hospice provides its care for free but receives only 16 per cent statutory funding to run its services. This means the charity needs to raise £14,000 a day to care for people across North Hampshire who have life-limiting illnesses, need end of life care, or bereavement support.
The event was kindly sponsored by Festival Place, Harlequin clothing and KJ Smith Solicitors. Volunteers from Basingstoke Camera Club generously dedicated their time to capture the event.
It is also holding its first ever Reindeer Run event in Alton on Sunday, December 17 at Jubilee Playing Fields.
Residents can sign up at stmichaelshospice.org.uk/reindeer-run-23.
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