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Record number of Santas turn out for the 2025 Lewes Downland Santa Run
More than 200 Santas and around 20 elves brought festive cheer to the Lewes Downs on Sunday 21st December as they took part in the 4th Annual Lewes Downland Santa Run, organised by Lewes Athletic Club. Numbers are still being crunched, but it is expected the event will raise over £2,000 for the Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital.
The Santa Run was joyfully started by Deputy Mayor Adrian Ross and Father Christmas himself, Michael Palmer, who sent runners on their way with an enthusiastic cry of “Ho Ho Go!” Trumpeter Steve Titchener added to the festive atmosphere.
Participants chose between three scenic routes of 5k, 10k, and 15k. Each route started from Landport Bottom and traversed the stunning Lewes Downs towards Ditchling and back. New for 2025, a one-mile Elf Run made the event even more family-friendly.
Runners enjoyed dry conditions, a moderate temperature of around 10°C, and only a light breeze on the return leg, making for near-perfect winter running weather.
The event was made possible thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers, including an on-the-day entry team, traffic organisers, 20 marshals, and a catering team. Lewes AC extends special thanks to Fiona Adams at Wallands School for providing registration facilities, and to Steven Farley of Graphic Corner for capturing fantastic photographs from the day. Runners and supporters can relive the event by viewing the photo gallery at:
https://gallery.thegraphiccorner.co.uk/folvhsantarun2025/
Sarah Pearson, Trustee of the Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital, said, “Thank you to everyone who took part and for their support. Funds raised will go directly towards improving equipment and facilities at the hospital, helping to enhance patient care and recovery.”
Lewes AC Chair Philip Westbury commented, “We’re delighted that a record number of Santas – over 200, and about 20 elves – took part this morning. Well done, all! And many thanks to our wonderful helpers.”
Participants were full of praise for the Santa Run and its organisation.
Runner Gerard Dummett said: “A big thank you to the organisers, marshals, and helpers. It’s a huge job putting on one distance, let alone four. Awesome day!”
Runner Colin Hartland added, “Thank you for an enjoyable and excellent event. The marshals were great, the signage was brilliant, the registration team was efficient and kind, and the refreshment team was friendly and helpful. Lovely atmosphere and all in a good cause. Well done to everyone involved.”
Runner Naomi Ross summed up the festive spirit: “Such fun! Definitely a firm event in the running calendar for next year.”
The Lewes Downland Santa Run continues to grow year on year, combining community spirit, festive fun, and vital fundraising for a local cause.
Special thanks to the following volunteers
- Beverley Sheridan, Caroline Darton-Moore, Cheryl Ferreira, Claire Watson, Matthew Simester, Matthew Bird, David Simister, Emma Shepherd, Finlay Whitfield, Fran Witt, Geoff Watson, Gerard Dummett, Jane Pinnock, Jane Reid, Tom Sallis, Jane Sallis, Anne Hagan, Jane Holford, Jo Gonsalves, Josh Scott, Julia Hilder, Karen Miles, Karin Richter, Kate Seymour, Leo Eyles, Mark Pappenheim, Mark Pearson, Martin Reid, Peter Miller, Philip Westbury, Ray Warburton, Richard Moore, Ronald Dam, Sarah Pearson, Sarah Robinson, Sarah Webster, Susanna Evans, Tatiana Nedialkova, Tracey Harris
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- Strength and Conditioning: Join our coaches on Monday nights to improve core strength and stability. Sign up here.
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