Southport was a sea of red as the 2021 Santa Sprint took place today to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice.
Hundreds of fundraisers gathered in Father Christmas outfits outside Silcock’s Funland and the Southport Pier Forecourt.
They were led through a fun warm up by Jenny Randle and Queenie the Bee mascot to make sure they were ready for either a 3k or a 5k run, with Sandgrounder Radio on hand to provide music for everyone taking part.
The event was sponsored by Silcock’s Leisure Group and Hickory’s Smokehouse.
Participants were treated to a free tea or coffee after the race at Silcock’s Pier Restaurant and bacon or sausage barms for just £1, while The Old Bank on Lord Street offered medal holders complimentary cake and coffee.
Runners set off along the Promenade, heading past the Marine Lake.
Paddle boarders from SUP North delighted entrants as they were in full festive fancy dress as they paddle boarded on the Marine Lake as the race went past!
Santas then headed left past the Revitalise Sandpipers respite home, then left along the coastal road with a beautiful view of Southport Beach and Southport Pier, racing over the Marine Parade Bridge to reach the finish line.
Jameson Silcock won, finishing first in the 5k race. He was followed by hundreds of other participants of all ages, with lots of children, families with buggies, dog walkers, people in wheelchairs, and others crossing the winning line and collecting their medals.
Many people were running in memory of loved ones, with some emotive pictures and messages pinned to runners’ outfits.
The race was made possible through the kind efforts of 30 volunteers who marshalled the event superbly.
Queenscourt Hospice Events Fundraiser Dianne Gillespie said: “Thank you to all the sponsors and supporters of today’s event.
“It was lovely to see the community coming together with family and friends and enjoying the annual Queenscourt Hospice Santa Sprint. As a small charity with a big reach we are so grateful for your support.
“We would also like to add a big thank you to the marshal volunteers who directed Santas along the route.”
The Santa Sprint is one of the main fundraisers for Queenscourt Hospice, raising thousands of pounds, and was sadly unable to take place last year due to Covid restrictions. People were delighted to see it return this year.
Mel Pinnington said: “Fantastic atmosphere this morning at the Queenscourt Hospice Santa Sprint – great to see so many people out supporting our local hospice.
“Massive thanks to the organisers, marshalls, stand up paddle boarders for your support and The Old Bank for the after race refreshments.”
Sarah McEntee said: “Just a wonderful morning! And the sun finally made an appearance… almost like it was meant to be. We love Southport and this is just another reason why!”
Vivienne Gibney said: “I loved every minute of it, and raising money for such a good cause.”
Kate Boyle said: “As ever… huge support for our wonderful hospice. Privileged to be a volunteer helping with check in.”
This was the 12th year the Santa Sprint has taken place in Southport.
Participants will be looking forward to next year’s event already.
Queenscourt Hospice, based on Town Lane in Kew in Southport, provides vital care and support to patients from Southport, Formby and West Lancashire completely free of charge.
Queenscourt can’t add days to lives but with donations from fundraising events such as the Santa Sprint, they can add life to days.
For more information please visit: queenscourt.org.uk
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