Runners grabbed their fake beards and donned festive suits to take part in one of Kent's biggest Santa dashes.

Returning for its second year the event held at the Gravesend Cyclopark attracted a record number of runners with more than 250 entrants.

A sea of Santas competed over two distances - either a 5k or 10k - with every runner received free gift.

There was a goodie bag for those speedy entrants finishing first, second and third in each race.

Kids also got to enjoy a festive face painting session free of charge.

Shopping opportunities were available with a Made in Kent pop up shop to purchase Christmas gifts and charity games to win vouchers for Bluewater and John Lewis.

The event was organised on behalf of Martin Tolhurst Solicitors to help raise funds and awareness for Sands, a stillbirth and neonatal charity.

But participants could also elect to run and raise money for a charity of their choice.

Chief executive at Sands Clea Harmer thanked everyone who took part and donated.

She said: "The vital funds raised will allow us to continue our work towards our mission to reduce the number of babies dying and to ensure all those affected receive the support and care that they need.

"The death of a baby is not as uncommon as people think, as every day 14 babies die before, during and shortly after birth every day in the UK."

“We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors who donned their festive costumes and took part in the Santa Dash event to help raise awareness.