SHOPPERS and visitors to Ledbury were both delighted and surprised to see huge numbers of people dressed in Santa outfits, including babies, children and dogs, making their way up into the high street, turning at the top cross road and following the road back down to the Homend.

Brightening up a cold grey day, with cries of "Merry Christmas" and "Ho Ho Ho", it was explained that this was the annual Santa Run in favour of St Michael's hospice where funds collected will go towards this much needed worthwhile cause.