CHRISTMAS officially arrived in Chester on Sunday, December 1, as hundreds of dashing Santas took to the city centre raising money for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd and The Countess Charity.

Over 1,800 people braved the chilly weather to take part in the Chester Santa Dash, which is now celebrating its ninth successful year.

Sponsorship is still being received and the total amount raised will be announced in the new year on social media.

Justin Caroe, community fundraiser for the hospice, said “We are absolutely delighted with the turn out for the event this year with people of all ages coming together to raise money for two great charities.”

He continued: “We would like to thank all of our volunteers and staff for keeping everyone safe during the event, our sponsors Virgin Money UK and Allington Hughes Law and all those who sponsored the Santa dashers.”

Several local businesses kindly got involved in supporting the Santa Dash with exclusive offers to participants with a Santa Dash medal such as Alanya Beauty, The Alchemist Chester, The Ship Inn, The Grosvenor Arms, The Handbridge Gastro Pub, The Red Lion Chester, Chester Beer and Wine, Brown Sugar Chester and Spoilt For Choice.

The event has become a regular fixture in the Chester City centre festive calendar and will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2020.

The Hospice of the Good Shepherd has helped thousands of residents with life limiting illnesses and relies on donations and fundraising to continue to help even more people in the community.

Now in its 30th year, the hospice has an annual running cost of £4.2 million where less than 25 per cent comes from government funding. The remaining income is generated through fundraising, donations, events and corporate partnerships.

The Countess Charity generates and manages charitable income to enhance and improve patient facilities at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

It works with the local community, corporates and grant making trusts to raise money for over 80 funds across the hospital - each one making a real difference to patient care.