A Yorkshire hospice has thanked 1,600 running Santas for raising £23,000 to support its expert end-of-life care and bereavement support.
Dressed as Father Christmas, the festive runners braved blizzard-like conditions at the end of November to take part in The Great Skipton Santa Fun Run, kicking off the Christmas festivities and fundraising for causes close to their hearts.
Organised by Skipton Craven Rotary Club, the annual festive fundraiser raised a grand total of £48,171 – the highest total since its inception in 2010 – including £10,966 raised by teams and individuals for their chosen charities.
Last month a cheque for £23,000 was presented to main beneficiary Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice near Keighley, which provides compassionate palliative care, advice and support to people living with life-limiting conditions across Wharfedale, Airedale, Craven and Bradford, as well as supporting their families.
Simon Manley, President of the Skipton Craven Rotary Club, said: “The Great Skipton Santa Fun Run 2021 was an outstanding success and we’re delighted to have raised so much money to support charitable causes. We would like to thank everyone involved – including our participants, donors, volunteers and the town council for contributing to what was a great occasion for all.”
Adam Brunskill, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, said: “To have a record-breaking year during a pandemic really shows the popularity of the event as well as the amazing commitment and dedication of the The Rotary Club of Skipton Craven. £23,000 is a truly fantastic amount and will help us to make sure we can keep offering our expert palliative care and support to local families when they need us the most – and fill their last days with love.”
To find out more about Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, visit sueryder.org/manorlands.
