CHRISTMAS magic was all around in Launceston last week, as crowds of Santas ran around the town.

On December 14, around 60 runners got dressed up as they took to the streets, spreading Christmas spirit while raising money for a good cause.

Local gym, Abs-solute Fitness hosted its very own Santa run to raise funds for Launceston Carnival and Launceston Lions. Runners donned their best Santa outfits and limbered up to take on the 1.5-mile course.

Speaking to the Post, personal trainer at the gym and the event organiser, David Marriott said: “I was chatting with one of the carnival organisers and they mentioned that they would like to do a Santa run at some point and I kind of just ran away with the idea for them.”

Alongside the run, a Christmas grotto and market was organised, hosting a variety of local businesses, each helping to raise funds.

Dave continued: “We added the grotto and market to raise money for the Launceston Lions Club, which I, many years ago, was a recipient of their kindness when was in need of it.”

Dave has said the event serves as a way for the gym to give something back to the community and spread a bit of Christmas cheer.

He explained: “It was a great day. All went really well with everyone saying how much they enjoyed the whole event. We just wanted to give a little something back to the community, and this seemed like a good time of year to do it.

“We tried to keep the cost of everything down so that it was affordable to all, and we spoiled the kids that attended with some great presents. It’s just great to see such a large group of people, adults and children, laughing and chatting and playing in the snow from the snow cannons.

“The Santa run, the market and the grotto were all very well received by all with lots of people mucking in to help. It was just good, wholesome, family fun without the crazy costs of how things are right now.”

With such an impressive turnout and plenty of support from locals, the event has already raised around £1,500, with organisers hopeful that the total surpasses that sum once the full count is complete.

Unsurprisingly, plans are already being made for another event to be held next year.

Dave added: “Bring on next year, where it is planned to be bigger and better. So, get your Santa suits ready! We’re looking forward to hosting more community events for everyone.

“Thank you to all of you that attended and contributed to us raising so much money. It looks like we've raised around £1,500!”

The money will go towards supporting Launceston Carnival, which draws impressive crowds each year, and Launceston Lions, which provides support and hosts a variety of community events.

With next year’s event on its way, there’s no doubt that local runners will be putting those suits to good use once more.