It's the time that ever Santa has a ball....Newbury Rotary's Santa Fun Run brings some festive cheer

The winter sun was shining as dozens of smiling Santas took to the streets for charity.

A total of 89 Santas, along with two canine Clauses, enjoyed the festive fun of the Newbury Rotary Club Santa Fun Run.

There was a family-friendly 1km route around Victoria Park, while a longer 5km run took full advantage of a picturesque trail around the park, then out through Parkway, Speen and Northcroft.

The Mayor of Newbury, Billy Drummond, set the runners on their way at 10.30am from Market Place and was on hand to welcome them back with finishers medals.

The first medal he presented was to a 5K runner - just 30 minutes after they had set off.

A spokesperson for Newbury Rotary Club said: "Throughout the morning, from runner registration to medal presentation, Kennet Radio provided a festive atmosphere in the Market Place.

"They also generously provided a pre-event warm-up session delivered by one of their team members - Ian Lamb – who went on to complete the 5K run followed by a live commentary from the finishing line.

"Thanks to the enthusiasm of Newbury’s Santas, and the teams of volunteers who braved an early winter morning start, Newbury Rotary will be able to make donations to West Berkshire Therapy Centre, West Berkshire Mencap and Friends of West Berkshire Young Carers."

Money raised from the entry fees will be split between the rotary club's chosen charities, while runners were also encouraged to use the run to fundraise for their own good causes.

"Newbury Rotary would like to acknowledge and thank the Mayor of Newbury, Newbury Phoenix Rotary, Thatcham Rotary, Newbury Lions, Scott Waters Opticians, BST fitness, Visit Newbury, Newbury Town Council, our friends and family without whom this event would not have been possible," the spokesperson added.

This weekend sees the Santas turning out in force in Thatcham, as the town hosts a full weekend of festive fun.