SADDLEWORTH Santa Dash has left organisers full of Christmas cheer after recording a record-breaking sum of money.
And those behind it are spreading the festive feelgood factor with donations back to the community.
Some 2,500 people took part in the 10th anniversary of the event on Saturday, December 7, which was followed by Uppermill’s Christmas lights switch-on – despite awful weather brought by Storm Darragh.
And Saddleworth Round Table has announced a record-breaking sum of nearly £35,000 was raised.
Head of community engagement Ryan Smith is now making sure every penny will be donated back to the community.
He said: “Last year’s Dash, a previous record breaker, raised £20,000 – all which has been handed off to local groups.
“This year, among other things, we’ve given four-figure sums to disabled theatre groups, brass bands, kids sports teams and care organisations.
“We want the wider community to know that if you are in need and require a grant, collaboration, or match funding, we’re desperate to hear from you.
“Every single penny we make from all our events is donated back.”
In terms of competition, first to cross the line for the boys was Alfie Bundy, with first girl Nell Wilson closely following.
As for the adults – first place male, Darren Smith, and female, Jessica Banks, took home a bottle of Round Table Gin as their prize.
But it was more about raising funds and community spirit as Santa Dash 2024 also saw the return of community support spaces, which offer local groups chance to benefit directly from their involvement.
Some 50 per cent of each ticket they bought was paid back as youth sports teams, Brownies, primary schools and Millgate Arts Centre raised a staggering £10,000 between them.
And the generous support of sponsors meant the Santa Dash could happen.
Andy Rothwell, Santa Dash lead at Saddleworth Round Table, added: “Were it not for the extremely generous donations brought forward from our raft of sponsors, it’d be nearly impossible to put on such an event.
“I’d like to personally thank our main sponsors Wates and North Ainley Solicitors as well as Sefton’s Accountants, Leesfield Construction, Trafficare, Grandpa Greene’s, CM Asset Management, Albion Tap and The Hare and Hounds.
“I’d also like to thank Dobcross Youth Band, Infinity Dance, Saddleworth Singers, all stall holders, B. Conway Group, Point, Saddleworth Morris Men, and Friezland Brass Band for their contributions that made the day so special.
“A special mention goes to Elliot Eastwick, who’s been with us as host and compare for the last nine years. We couldn’t do it without you!”
Once the Dash was done, attention turned to the annual Winter Wonderland Procession and Christmas lights switch on.
Santa was flanked by the Grinch and Disney’s Elsa and Anna – keenly aided by nine-year-old Grace, whose Christmas Card won her the annual competition prize of being able to light up the main tree in the square.
Round Table chairman Ed Burbidge thanked everyone for their support and involvement in the event.
He said: “I’d like to thank everyone for their contribution.
“Not every community is lucky enough to have people willing to turn out on a miserable cold Saturday and make the start of Christmas so special.
“I appreciate the event does cause disruption, but events like this are what makes Saddleworth such an amazing place to be.
“So, whether you’ve bought a ticket, a mulled wine, or just come along to watch, we’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas and look forward to more events in the New Year.”
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