CHRISTMAS shoppers were given a festive surprise in Winchester last week as hundreds of Santas ran through the city.

It was part of Naomi House’s annual Santa Run fundraiser which saw 200 residents sign up to complete a 5km course.

The Santas began at the University of Winchester Campus in Sparkford Road before heading into the city and through a busy High Street before looping back to the student union on campus.

They were started off by BBC Breakfast sports reporter Mike Bushell, who then took part himself with his family.

Together, the runners raised around £10,000 for the hospice which provides care to children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions across central southern England. Charlotte Steart, events coordinator at Naomi House, said: “We are so grateful to all of the runners who braved the cold and took part in this hugely enjoyable event. The new route was really great and it was fun to go up the high street and mingle with the shoppers.

“The fun run is now a regular feature on Winchester’s Christmas calendar and we can’t wait to start organising the Santa Fun Run 2012.”

Mr Bushell said: ““We had such fun on the day and it was great to see so many people taking part. Thanks to all my fellow runners for helping raise so much money for such a worthwhile cause.”

It was the third Santa Run in a row, breaking the attendance record by around 50 more runners.