The North Pole was a little short-staffed during a Christmas charity event, as over 150 Santas left festive preparations to take part in a fun run.

Yesterday (December 8), St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood announced the Loughton Santa Run helped raised more than £10,000.

The 5km event was held on November 27, raising money for the hospice which cares for people with life-limiting and terminal illnesses.

St Clare fundraiser Dani De’ath said: “The Loughton Santa Run was once again an absolute Christmas cracker of an event.

“[Organiser] Geraldine Wilson, and all the shops who support the event along the Debden Broadway, have been fantastic in putting together this festive fundraiser for the past four years.

“It really was an astounding sight to see so many runners – all dressed in Santa suits – running down the Broadway.

“We want to say a huge thank you to Geraldine and all those who help organise the event – they really are hospice heroes.”