FATHER Christmases were out in force over the weekend to spread some seasonal cheer.

They were accompanied by elves and other festive characters. including The Grinch, as they took part in a Santa Dash, stretching over four miles.

Starting from the Jolly Crofters Public House, in Chorley Old Road, Horwich, around 150 people took part.

Some were keen runners but others just wanted to enjoy a bit of Christmas fun and took the proceedings at their own pace.

Everyone who took part enjoyed a crisp cold sunny December outing to tackle the winding course.

Prizes were awarded on the day by the promoters for the best fancy dress, with all runners being awarded a special Christmas medal just for taking part.

Members of the Burnden Road Runners eventually took the top four spots in the race, with the first runners returning home within half-an-hour.

The first place competitor was Paul Duke and the first woman to cross the line was Charlotte Corrigan, representing Hyndburn Athletics Club.

The festive event was organised by Horwich-based Mad Bull Events.

Later Stewart Jones, Santa Dash organiser, said: “Mad Bull Events Santa Dash would just like to thank over 200 plus Santa’s/fancy dress runners for turning out on Sunday morning.

“What a brilliant atmosphere there was, with Christmas songs playing and everyone joining in.

“It made for a special morning with fantastic weather. Spot prizes were given out and a special prize was awarded for the best dressed with lots of mince pies and chocolates at the end, not forgetting the Curly Wurlys given out at the top by two of the lads.”