Christmas comes early at town's Santa Run

Around 200 people dressed in festive red and green to take on the 5km Santa Run in Thetford on Sunday.

Participants dressed as things such as elves, presents, Christmas crackers and Father Christmas himself to take on the route around the town.

Sharon Nash, from Run Breckland who organised the event as part of Thetford Town Council's Winter Wonderland weekend, said: "We are really chuffed that so many people took part, and that the majority took the time to don fancy dress for our festive fancy dress competition.

"There were so many family groups, too, with younger runners taking part with their parents, and everyone was smiling. That was what stood out for me, the smiles. That included spectators and volunteer marshals - the whole kit and caboodle."

Town mayor, councillor Roy Brame, joined in with the runners during the Zumba warm-up, even running down King Street with his own personal 'Mayor' running number.

Both he and mayoress Karen Brame were at the finishing line to present medals to the finishers and prizes were given for the best fancy dress.

The event raised £500 for the Mayor's Charities Fund and money for the First Aid Supporting Thetford (FAST) team who volunteered on the day.

Sharon added: "While the runners had a great morning running with us and we were able to show off our lovely little town, we also raised funds to help others in need. The spirit of Christmas, indeed.

"We're going to do it all again around Easter time, as on Sunday, April 14, we will be holding our Easter Bunny 5K Run."