Festive fun was had by all as families from around the north east dusted off their elf costumes in time for the 3rd annual Elf Run at intu Metrocentre.
The patter of spritely feet was heard throughout the malls as hundreds of over excitable elves took part in the 1km charity fun run.
Participating elves paid £10 to enter the race and received an elf hat and t-shirt, an ‘official helper’ certificate from Santa and a shiny runner’s medal for completing the fun run.
As well as raising funds for a charity close to their heart, Santa’s little helpers also embodied the true spirit of Christmas by bringing unwrapped presents for Santa to distribute to children and families who need them most this Christmas.
First off the starting blocks at intu Metrocentre was Susan Hutchinson, mum to Ben, aged 5. Susan said: “The Elf Run this year was brilliant, we had so much fun! We did the run last year and we had such a great time we had to come back this year to do it again!”
Esther Bennett, intu Metrocentre’s Head of Fun aged nine, added:
“I’ve had so much fun today; it’s been amazing! The amount of elves at intu Metrocentre today was crazy, I’ve never seen so many people dressed up before. It’s made me so excited for Christmas now!”
Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre, said:
“We’re delighted to see that the Elf Run has become a highlight of the festive calendar for families around the north east.
The atmosphere on the malls was magical with elves as far as the eye could see, as children and adults alike joined in the seasonal fun.
Christmas may be a time of indulgence but the Elf Run is always a fantastic opportunity for our shoppers to get active, get ‘elfy’ and get into the festive spirit whilst raising vital funds for children’s charities.”