HUNDREDS of ‘dashers’ donned festive gear as they took to the streets of Barnoldswick in aid of a cancer charity.

The second Barnoldswick Santa Fun Run saw 281 runners in full Father Christmas costume tackle a 5km course to raise funds for Barnoldswick and Earby Bosom Friends.

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Organisers said yesterday’s race had raised £4,100, with many donations still to be received.

The charity, which has raised more than £250,000 since it was founded by Mary Brennan in 2000, said it was delighted at the turn-out for the event in cold conditions.

Sharon Hirst, a volunteer who helped organise the fun run, said: “It was fantastic. We depend so much on the support of local businesses and the community and there was a real community spirit.

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“We simply couldn’t put on events like this without their financial support and volunteers. There was a good crowd of spectators on what was a pretty bad day, but the weather held off enough for it to be a success. I’d especially like to thank Stanley House Vets, Rolls-Royce, Pennine Events, West Craven Insurance, Barnoldswick Bikes and all the other sponsors.”

The 5km course, marshalled by 23 volunteers from Barlick Fell Runners, started at West Craven Sports Centre and followed the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath towards Salterforth, before returning via Kelbrook Road and finishing in the town square.

Although not strictly competitive, the race was won in under 18 minutes by hometown runner Tom Brewster.

Ms Hunt said she hoped the event would become a regular fixture in the town’s calendar after two successful years.

She said: “Barnoldswick is a very tight-knit community and there’s loads going on in the town square. “Everybody really came together and we’re looking forward to doing it again.”

Bosom Friends supports women with cancer, not only in the immediate area but also in the rest of Pendle, Craven and the Ribble Valley.