A CHARITY race that saw around 250 people dress up as Father Christmas helped to raise around £3,000 for heart patients.

The British Heart Foundation Richmond Santa Mile took place on Sunday, December 9 from Richmond Swimming Pool, where participants could chose to walk or run one, three or six miles.

Chirstmas carols were played by Muker Silver Band and Richmondshire Leisure Trust provided a mass warm-up session and free mince pies.

Maureen Gibbon, BHF Richmond and Catterick Committee chairwoman, said: “We are delighted that so many people turned out to support our first Richmond Santa Mile, a great start to the festive season.

“Special thanks go to our event partner Richmondshire Leisure Trust, our sponsors Newroc and Seaton Spring, the many local businesses who generously providing goods in kind or vouchers for goody bags, and Councillor Ian Threlfall who spoke at the event.

The vital funds will help the BHF in its fight against heart and circulatory disease – the nation’s biggest killer.

For information on how to support BHF Richmond and Catterick Committee contact Sharon Oakley, BHF fundraising manager for North Yorkshire, on 01904-270776 or email oakleys@bhf.org.uk.