CHILDREN from schools and nurseries in Teignbridge were among 6,000 from across South Devon taking part in this year’s Rowcroft Hospice’s annual Rudolph Run.

The herds of young reindeer aged between two and 11 dashed, jogged, and walked their way through this year’s sponsored event, to raise an impressive £30,000 to support the hospice’s specialist end-of-life care for local people living with life-limiting illnesses.

Now in its fourth year, the Rudolph Run has become a much-loved event on the local school calendar, bringing together communities in fun and festive spirit while raising important funds to support for Rowcroft’s vital care services which help over 2,500 patients and their loved ones each year across South Devon.

Alexia Croft, Rowcroft Hospice’s Events Manager, said: 'The atmosphere at this year’s Rudolph Run events has been nothing short of magical.

‘Seeing thousands of children laughing, running, and jingling all the way to raise funds for the hospice has been truly heartwarming.

‘The event has once again highlighted the amazing Christmas spirit that we can all be so proud of here in South Devon.

‘We’d like to say a massive thank you to every single school, nursery, and little reindeer who took part for helping to make this year’s Rudolph Run so special.’

The Rudolph Run is more than just a fundraiser, it’s also an opportunity to inspire young children to care for their local community.

Teachers and pupils praised the event for combining festive fun with a worthwhile cause.

Ben Noble, Head of Stover Preparatory School, said: ‘Once again, the children in the prep school, as well as the Year 7s, ran for Rowcroft.

‘Wearing antlers and red noses, whilst listening to Christmas classics, they ran either in the prep playground or around the cross country course.

‘We were lucky with the weather; we always seem to be when raining money for Rowcroft Hospice.

;The children had a great time and raised a lot money for a very worthy cause and are already looking forward to next year’s event.’