Thousands of runners took to the streets in Marlow last weekend to take part in the town's annual Santa's Fun Run.

Over £50,000 was raised by the event organised by the Rotary Clubs of Marlow with around 3000 people joining in the 18th edition of the run.

Naomi Riches MBE started the race at the bottom of the High Street, with the participants taking 11 minutes to clear the start line.

The race was led up the High Street by a team of cyclists, followed by the traditional sea of red.

Nearly 200 volunteers helped stage the event with an estimated 2000 spectators lining the route.

The Marlow Jam Theatre Company provided live entertainment in the High Street, and for the first time, a band from the Sir Wiliam Borlase School entertained runners and spectators with a selection of music.  

Initial cheques of £3000 each were presented to this year’s lead charities the One Can Trust and the Marlow United Charities.

The top three male runners were Edward Faulkner, Neil Praine, Jack Turner.

The top three female runners were Liv Brown, Ally Clegg and Kate Sophoclides.

Chair of the Santa's Fun Run organising committee, John Prout, said: “We are so pleased to be able to hold this event – we get fantastic feedback and this year was no exception.

"Everyone returned safely and there seemed to be a very special atmosphere amongst both runners and spectators.

"We are particularly pleased at the way our 'charity pool' has worked this year.

"So far a record 33 charities have been nominated by teams supported, and we will distribute the £8000 available in January - once all team fundraising has been completed.   

"For rotary the event ticks two big boxes. We provide a great opportunity for community involvement in Marlow and we raise enormous sums of money for good causes.

"The fun run is a good example of what Rotary is all about.”

The charity pool of £8000 will be distributed to all teams who raised more than the scheme thresholds of £50 and £500. 

Marlow Thames Rotary Club President, Richard Gyselynck said: “I would like to thank all of the nearly 200 volunteers – whether Rotarians or not - who in many cases have spent an enormous amount of time planning and organising the event.

"We also have some fantastic sponsors – and particularly lead sponsor the Shanly Foundation and core sponsor Softcat.

"In fact, the support from many local businesses has been extraordinary, allowing us to cover virtually all of our event costs and maximising the funds available for local charities.

"A fantastic effort by all concerned!”