THERE were more ‘ho ho hos’ than ever at this year’s festive fundraiser race.

An army of more than 200 Santas trekked across Coate Water Park on yesterday for the town’s fourth Santa Dash in aid the Prospect Hospice.

More people turned up than organisers, the North Wiltshire Hash House Harriers, were expecting which meant the race started late so everyone could register and there were not enough numbers and medals for all the competitors.

Sandie Mulcahy, treasurer, said: “We have got a lot more than normal, we only had 150 last year. It’s been a fantastic day and we’re really pleased because everyone has worked so hard to make it a success.”

This is the first year the event has been held at Coate Water – it has taken place in Swindon town centre before.

Sandie said: “It’s been fantastic and moving it to Coate Water has been key in that. I think this will be the venue in the future.”

Fundraisers could choose to race either 2.5 kilometres or five kilometres and raised more than £600 in total.

Commonweal School pupil Will Penfold, 12, won the 2.5k race in a time of12 minutes and 20 seconds.

He said: “I did a bit of training yesterday but I wasn’t expecting to win. I really enjoyed it and I think I’ll do it again next year.”

Another Commonweal pupil, Ben Tubb, 11, came third in the 2.5k race and said it was good fun taking part.

The 5k race was won, with a time of 20 minutes 50 seconds, by Stroud Athletics Club member Alan Pitt, 48, of Stroud, who said he was surprised to come first.

The O’Brien and Davitt families, of Rodbourne and Pinehurst, were among the competitors and were running in memory of Andy Davitt’s brother, Martin.

Martin, who died of a brain tumour this year, was cared for by the Prospect and Andy said he was really grateful to them.

“I was overwhelmed by the support of the Prospect, they were absolutely excellent. The Prospect is probably one of the best things about this town and I can’t say enough about the staff, they’re wonderful,” he said.

Mother and daughter team Helen Livingstone and Kia McKinlay, seven, of Park South, were raising money in memory of Helen’s great uncle, Jonny Bambrick, who was cared for by the Prospect before he died of cancer.

Helen said: “We thought the Prospect were brilliant and it’s fun dressing up as Santa.”

A shortage of Santa suits at the shops did not put Bernie Smith, Dan Stephens and Craig Spreadborough, of Westlea, off from racing. They took part wearing women’s Santa dresses. Meanwhile marathon man Mike Buss also joined in the fun while wearing his Arctic suit.

Competitors who did not receive medals can contact the running club by visiting www.nwh3.co.uk