Silcock Leisure Group said it was delighted to once again support the annual Southport Santa Sprint for Queenscourt Hospice.
The firm, which runs Silcock’s Funland, Silcock’s Carousel and Silcock’s Pier Famiyl Restaurant at the entrance to Southport Pier, sponsored the run for the 11th consecutive year, as well as provided printing, free hot drinks and free rides on the Carousel for all participants.
The popular annual event saw hundreds of participants in Santa suits run either a 3km or 5km route starting and ending outside Funland, raising thousands of pounds for the hospice.
Oliver Halstead was first over the line, very closely followed by Ryan Pike.
Volunteers from The Rotary Club of Southport were among those who provided marshals around the course.
The race was originally due to take place in December but had to be postponed due to sub-zero temperatures and icy conditions.
Silcock’s Operations Manager Serena Silcock-Prince said: “The Sants Sprint went really well! It was a fantastic event.
“We were very lucky with the weather.
“There was a really good turnout, with lots of Santas! There were people of all ages, lots of them walking dogs, some of them pushing prams, or on mobility scooters. It was a very inclusive event.
“It had a really good feelgood factor.
“The paddle boarders on Marine Lake in their festive fancy dress were amazing! They really made all the runners smile, waving to them as they ran past.
“Even though the event was postponed and took place in January, it felt very festive, and brought some real Christmas magic.
“Since the Santa Sprint started, it has really gained momentum and it seems to get better and better every year. Lots of people this weekend were saying they can’t wait to come back and take part in the next Santa Sprint.
“I would like to say a big thank you to Queenscourt Hospice Events Fundraiser Dianne Gillespie and her team who did such a superb job of organising the Santa Sprint.
“This was the 11th year that Silcock’s has sponsored the Santa Sprint, donating £1,000 to the charity. We also provided printing, in addition to free hot drinks and free rides on the Carousel for everyone taking part. Everyone seemed top really enjoy riding on the Carousel at the end!
“Queenscourt is a brilliant charity. It is very much in the hearts of people in Southport, Formby and West Lancashire.
“Most people in this area know someone or have had a family member who has been supported in some way by the hospice.
“Silcock’s will continue to support the charity.
“I would like to thank Southport MP Damien Moore for his support too. He was there for three hours chatting with volunteers and runners. He had lots of time for everyone.”
Queenscourt Hospice cares for people either at the hospice or at home across Southport, Formby and West Lancashire.
Hickory’s Smokehouse in Kew sponsored the medals.
Following the Santa Sprint, participants were provided with free coffee and cake at The Grand on Lord Street in Southport, free soda at Hickory’s Smokehouse in Kew and a free week pass at Everlast Gym in Southport.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
