Three charities have been presented with cheques totalling £1500 this week after the money raised from the Bovey Santa Dash was added up and accounted for.

A cheque for £600 was donated to Devon Heart Heroes, who will use the money to help support the families of children who have life limiting and congenital heart conditions.

Bovey Tracey Lifesaving Club received a donation of £400. The club educates young people and parents about water safety and emergency lifesaving skills including resuscitation and how to use a defibrillator.

The remaining £500 went to Bovey Tracey Swimming Pool to help towards energy costs. As well as its usual April to September opening hours, the outdoor pool is also open between Christmas and New Year so people can enjoy the heated outdoor pool environment over the festive period.

Bovey Tracey Swimming Pool opens next Saturday (April 17th) and will close on September 15th.

The Bovey Tracey Santa Dash took place on December 16 last year at Mill Marsh Park. It saw 176 runners and walkers tackle a route of either 1km, 2km, 3km or 5km.

The event finished at Josie’s Ice Cream Parlour where participants celebrated with festive refreshments, music and a snow machine.

Over the past four years, the event has generated raised £5000 for charity.

‘We all thank everyone who enters the Dash. It is your money that goes to great causes and is so appreciated,’ said Ian Hutchings from Bovey Tracey Lifesaving Club.