Silcock Leisure Group was once again delighted to sponsor the Southport Santa Sprint fundraiser for Queenscourt Hospice.
The popular event made a much-awaited return today, after sadly being postponed due to Covid restrictions last year.
The colourful spectacle saw hundreds of fundraisers wearing Father Christmas outfits to run 3k or 5k routes for the charity. They set off from outside Silcock’s Funland and Silcock’s Pier Restaurant before running around Marine Lake and along the coastal road.
Silcock Leisure Group donated £1,350 to Queenscourt Hospice through its sponsorship this year. A large cheque for the sum was presented to Queenscourt via Southport MP Damien Moore.
The Southport firm also provided free hot teas and coffees to runners, while also providing bacon or sausage barms for just £1. The Old Bank on Lord Street in Southport offered complimentary coffee and cake to participants.
It was the eighth year Silcock Leisure Group has sponsored the Southport Santa Sprint.
Operations Manager Serena Silcock-Prince was on hand to cheer on runners today and was delighted to see her fleet-footed nephew Jameson Silcock win the 5k race.
She said: “Silcock Leisure Group is delighted to once again sponsor and support the annual Queenscourt Hospice Santa Sprint.
“We are proud to have been part of this fantastic event for over eight years now.
“Events Fundraiser Dianne Gillespie and her Queenscourt team do a wonderful job, and this year did not disappoint.
“The atmosphere was amazing – a real family and community event where everyone was welcome.
“It’s just what we need at the moment to raise spirits!
“Let’s stand up for Southport!
“A huge thank you to our Southport MP Damien Moore for his support for the event.
“We were so proud of Jameson, my nephew, crossing the race line first.”
Southport MP Damien Moore said: “This is a fantastic event which shows our community at its best.
“The Santa Sprint did a perfect job in helping a great cause, supported by one of Southport’s oldest family businesses, Silcock’s. Congratulations to all those who took part.
“It was nice to see individuals, families and friends enjoying themselves.
“The refreshments for participants from Silcock’s and The Old Bank were very much appreciated by everyone.”
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.”
Queenscourt Hospice, based on Town Lane in Kew, Southport, provides vital care and support to patients from Southport, Formby and West Lancashire completely free of charge.
For more information please visit: queenscourt.org.uk
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
