Acorns Children's Hospice Santa Run
Over 270 people dressed up in Santa outfits and ran in three separate races on the 1st December; around Brindleyplace and the NIA in the first ever Acorns Children's Hospice Santa Run that exceeded fundraising expectations and raised £20,000.
David Strudley, Acorns Chief Executive - who took part in the second race with wife Tracey - said: "The first ever Acorns Children's Hospice Santa Run far exceeded our expectations as we'd hoped to raise around £10,000 to support our work with local life-limited children and their families. Instead we raised an incredible £20,000 thanks to a tremendous effort by those who took part."
Brindleyplace management helped to organise parts of the event that featured hundreds of people - adults and children - dressed as Santa and enjoying a memorable occasion in Brindleyplace. "It was a wonderful atmosphere and really set everyone up for the festive season" added David Strudley.
The event featured real reindeer on show, support from local charities Perry Barr Greyhound Rescue and Birmingham Dogs Home who brought rehabilitated animals for participants and spectators to pet and learn more about. There was a special 10-minute performance of James and the Giant Peach by cast members from The Crescent Theatre's forthcoming January performance of the Roald Dhal classic children's story, and entertainment from local band The Heathers who performed a selection of classic Christmas tunes.
David Strudley continued: "Acorns wishes to thank everyone involved in helping to make the event such a phenomenal success, particularly its sponsors Legal and General, Brindleyplace and Aston Villa Football Club. Special thanks to Jon and his crew from Dragon Leisure who provided an amazing public address, DJ support and fantastic compering of the whole event which was really interactive and lots of fun.
"The money raised will go directly to running Acorns' three hospices that care and support chronically ill children living in the West Midlands. We will definitely repeat the Acorns Santa Run next year and hope to make it a bigger and better event for everyone to enjoy with a wonderful Christmas atmosphere."
To find out more about Acorns and how you can help, visit: www.acorns.org.uk or call: 0845 128 4444.