HUNDREDS of runners donned their Santa suits for a milestone fun run.

The Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity hosted the Santa Fun Run in Colchester’s Castle Park for the tenth year.

It was the first year Colchester has combined its fundraising efforts with Ipswich Hospital.

There were three routes available - 3k, 5k and 10k - which started and finished near the bandstand.

To celebrate the tenth anniversary there was also an interactive treasure hunt for children.

Head of fundraising at the hospitals charity Caroline Bates said: “We are just counting the money now and we believe we are on track for £15,000.

“We had about 300 people running, people were even running in blow-up Santa suits.

“Dogs were also dressed up, everyone made a great effort. It was great fun and everyone seemed to enjoy it.”

There was a bit of sludge along the 10k route which means it was cut a little short but Caroline said it was a glorious day.

All the runners were given their own Santa suits to wear.

The money raised from the event will be spent on various wards across the hospital.

Caroline added: “As it was the tenth year we did a treasure hunt for children and they had to find chocolates around the course.”