Supporters of Little Havens Hospice are all on Father Christmas’s nice list after completing a fundraising Santa run at the weekend.

Havens Hospices held their Run Santa Run and Reindeer Race on Sunday at Wat Tyler Country Park, with more than 200 people showing their support and entering into the Christmas spirit.

As well as the 5k Santa Run and 2k Reindeer Race, Father Christmas was in his grotto handing out gifts and there was also a festive toy sale.

Jessica Harrington, 32, from Basildon, took part in the run with friends and family as part of Darcey’s Dancers and Prancers.

The group of 24 were running in memory of Jessica’s niece, Darcey, who was cared for by Little Havens in 2016.

Darcey’s Dancers and Prancers have raised £784 so far.

It is hoped up to £15,000 will be raised in sponsorship from the event to help care for seriously ill babies, children and teenagers at Little Havens Hospice.

Darcey died on September 2, 2016 and stayed at the hospice in their Woodlands Suite, a specialist bereavement suite, until her funeral.

Susie May, Havens Hospices events fundraiser, said: “I’d like to thank every single Santa and reindeer that took part and helped us all get in the Christmas spirit this weekend while raising money for their local children’s hospice and also to everyone who volunteered their time.”