CHARITY supporters from across Somerset got into the Christmas spirit at St. Margaret’s Hospice Festive Fun Run, sponsored by Western Power Distribution.

There was an array of Christmas themed costumes on show at the event on Sunday, December 3, when around 100 participants completed a 5km course starting and finishing at Bridgwater and Albion Rugby Club.

St. Margaret’s Hospice patrons Emma Britton and Billy the Beagle set the runners on their way and welcomed them home. Emma thanked them all for supporting the charity, which cared for 3,800 people in Somerset last year.

Attractions included a festive photo booth, a treasure hunt for youngsters, a raffle and stalls selling Christmas cards and gifts.

Many of those taking part said they wanted to give something back to St. Margaret’s Hospice because family members or friends had been cared for by the charity’s nurses in their own homes or at the In-Patient Units in Taunton and Yeovil.

The charity needs to raise more than £9.5m a year to fund its care services.

Richard Wallace, events manager at St. Margaret’s Hospice, said: “This was our first Festive Fun Run and we were delighted with the response from people in Bridgwater and beyond.

“Everyone who came along really got into the Christmas spirit and had a great time. All the money raised will make a real difference to people facing a life-limiting illness.

“St. Margaret’s Hospice is a charity – we are not part of the NHS and it’s the sponsorship raised at events like these that ensures we can care for and support patients and their families across Somerset.”

It’s not too late to bring Christmas cheer to patients and their families. St. Margaret’s Hospice is encouraging people across the county to get behind its campaign to Pay for Christmas Day by holding their own fundraising events during December – from cake sales to wearing Christmas jumpers to work. More information can be found at: st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/pay-for-christmas-day-2017-resources.