RUN run Rudolph... Santa Claus is coming to town as more than 500 people took part in Brighter Futures reindeer run at Coate Water yesterday.

This is the charity’s fifth year of running the event and they have raised around £12,000 to go towards its radiotherapy appeal.

Families braved the wet and windy weather conditions to put on some antlers and other fancy-dress costumes including an elf, Christmas jumpers and carrots – and it wasn’t just humans that were dressed for the occasion as a lot of people included their dogs in the event.

Michelle Leighton, community and events fundraising manager for Brighter Futures, said: “We were very excited to see so many people dressed up for the occasion.

“We hope that all of the participants had just as much fun as we have. Each year we have seen the event go from strength to strength.

“The Brighter Futures radiotherapy appeal has been really important for many people in the town and the work we do at the hospital is really important to the community of Swindon. That’s why I think we have seen so many people get involved with the run.”

Before the chase the carrot event started, a warm-up session was held to get everyone stretched out ready to take on the challenge.

Lynn Holley was accompanied with her family and two dogs; they were all dressed up and looking forward to helping the cause.

She said: “I think what the charity does for so many people and what it is trying to achieve is brilliant. I wouldn’t have missed this event for anything and we are all glad we could take part.”

The finishing point was at Great Western Hospital where everyone was greeted with warm drinks and mince pies to celebrate.

Elsewhere across town there was also a Santa run being held at Lydiard Park. Hundreds turned up dressed as Father Christmas as they took on the 5km course in aid of raising funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix organises the event every year - 75 per cent of the money goes to the main charity, with the rest shared among other good causes.

Helicopters of the air ambulance service also flew over the runners to give them some inspiration.