The damp weather didn’t stop about 1,000 people dressing up as Father Christmas and running around the streets of Rochester this afternoon.

They all took part in the Rotary Club charity event, now in its sixth year and has become a popular part of kicking of the Christmas festivities in Medway.

The Santa Fun Run activities started at about 11am this morning with demonstrations from the Distinction Twirlers.

Before the red-racegoers set off, many took part in a keep-fit warm up to music in the castle moat area.

Not only were runners both young and old or walkers dressed as Santa, dogs were also dress in the traditional costume of the big man while spectators also saw a snowman, a dragon and even a bride and groom who had just got married nearby got a round of applause as they walked through the hundreds of Santas.

The race started from the Star Hill area of Rochester High Street and started at about 2pm.

It was organised to raise money for Children’s Hospice Holidays to provide holidays for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

This year’s race was won by Pete Hanley, 36, who is from Rochester.

He said: “This is my first time and I need a drink now.”

For more coverage and pictures see Monday’s edition of Medway Messenger.