Two Kent MPs joined hundreds of others dressed up as Father Christmas for an annual festive event.

Conservatives Tracey Crouch and Kelly Tolhurst took part in the Santa Fun Run at the Historic Dockyard Chatham today.

Organised by the Medway Rotary Club, the event aims to raise as much money for charity.

On a brisk Sunday morning, the runners arrived and got dressed up in their Santa suits –white beards included.

A dance session was hosted by the Right Step Dance Company to warm up participants.

The event began with a procession led by the Bloco Fogo Band and there was music from Dave Slate of MTD Disco until 2pm.

Two professionally timed runs of 5km and 10km also took place before the fun run.

The route was set out across the historic site, passing the River Medway and the dockyard’s ships and buildings.

MP for Chatham and Aylesford, Tracey Crouch, joined in alongside Rochester and Strood MP, Kelly Tolhurst.

Spectators cheered on the Santas from the sidelines, giving everyone much needed encouragement.

Both MPs posted on Facebook afterwards – thanking the organisers and celebrating the run with some festive photos.

“Great fun at Historic Dockyard Chatham this morning with Kelly Tolhurst for the Rotary Club of Medway Santa Run,” Ms Crouch said.

“A huge thank you to all the volunteers who marshalled this lovely route and to those who ran, raising funds for children's charity including 21 Together.”

Miss Tolhurst added: “Early start this morning with my constituency neighbour, former Sports Minister Tracey Crouch MP as we headed over to Historic Dockyard Chatham for the Rotary Club of Medway Santa Run raising money this year for 21 Together.

“Great morning and thank you to all the wonderful volunteer organisers who kept us all going, also to all the runners who have helped raise money for this great charity.

“Special thanks to Tracey for coaching me round.”

All participants received a medal for completing the run. It is not yet known how much money has been raised from the event.