Dozens of children worked off their advent calendar chocolates as they raced Rudolph over giant obstacles at Newcastle’s own Reindeer Run.
Around 60 kids clambered through tyre trails and conquered hay bales and huge inflatables at Newburn Activity Centre on Saturday, all to raise money for disabled and disadvantaged young people across the north-east.
Around £1,000 were raised by event organisers Smile For Life Children’s charity, who ran the 1km run for the second year in succession.
Charity chief executive Paula Gascoigne, said: “This was our second annual Reindeer Run and was bigger and better than ever!
“We wanted to do something a bit different to raise some vital funds for our charity, something that would tie into the festive season and be open to everyone.
“That’s where the idea of the Reindeer Run came from and we are so thrilled so many people came along and had so much fun.
“We were also able to involve many of the young people who benefit from the charity in the day, and they all did a fantastic job. Roll on Reindeer Run 2017!”
As well as taking on the festive-themed course, participants were able to pay a visit to Santa’s grotto, try out the Bucking Bronco-style Rudolph ride, while their parents could do some Christmas shopping at craft stalls.
The charity, which has its own coffee shop Café Beam on Ashburton Road, Gosforth, staffed by students with disabilities and learning difficulties, also ran its own pop-up café serving festive food and drink to families.
Kelly Mather, 32, brought children Mia, 7, and Matthew, 6, along to take part. She said: “The kids absolutely loved it. It was a fantastic, fun event for all the family and I’m sure it’ll only get better every year.
“It is great that children have access to something like this where they are able to have a load of fun but raise money for a great cause at the same time.”
Young people supported by the charity were also there on the day, helping out stewarding around the course, donning a reindeer suit or dressing up as Santa’s elves.
Cole Forster, 18, who works at Café Beam, said: “It is great. We all helped out doing different jobs and had lots of fun. I am looking forward to next year now!”
For more information about the charity and the event, head to www.smileforlife.org.uk or follow them on Twitter at @SmileforlifeNE or search for them on Facebook.