With no races this weekend. a large number of Ivanhoe Runners took part in the Ashby Santa Fun Run and Walk or helped with the organisation. With over 1,000 entrants all dressed as Santa's fun was definitely the order of the day, with many of those taking part walking the approximately 3k route around some of the sights of Ashby.

Definitely not walking though were the first three people home, who were all Ivanhoe Runners - new member Adam Smythe, Phil Stevenson and Simon Terry. Phil even overcame the handicap of exploding trousers due to the one-size-fits-all nature of the Santa suits!

The event director was Kevin Sanders, who also happens to be an Ivanhoe Runner but also a member of the Rotary Club of Ashby Castle, the organisers.

 He said "What a fabulous day, well over 1,000 Santa's enjoying a community event on a bright sunny winter morning. We would like to thank everyone involved in the event, from all the families, friends, businesses and clubs that entered, to the brilliant local businesses that have sponsored the event which is all for charity, to the other clubs in Ashby that provided marshals and helpers. To have achieved over 1,000 entrants in only 2 years is absolutely amazing and we are very pleased with the way that Ashby and the surrounding community has engaged with the spirit of this event. Many people said that their Christmas started today!".

Written by Kevin Sanders - last updated on 06/12/2016