More than 100 turn out for Wolverhampton's annual Santa run

It was a sea of red at West Park, in Wolverhampton, as around 120 people turned out to take on the Beacon Centre for the Blind's annual Santa Run.

Crowds warmed up with help from much-loved Wolves mascot Wolfie before setting off on the 5K route – with some braving the course blindfolded in efforts to raise awareness of the charity's work.

Beacon Centre for the Blind chief executive, Arwyn Jones, said he hoped this year's event would see around £1,500 raised for the sight loss charity.

He said: "We have got about 120 Santas already booked on. It is all about a bit of fun at the start of December to raise money for the Beacon Centre and all we do for people living with sight loss across the Black Country.

"I think it is slightly better than it was last year. Is absolutely brilliant, Woflie has come down, it is fantastic.

"These kinds of events are crucial for us to help us raise awareness, to raise funds and to highlight the services that we provide. We would hope to raise between £1,000 and £1,500."

Margaret Burton, from Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club, donned her Santa hat to marshal the event for the third time.

She said: "The event is very important. It is a good way to get the charity money whilst a lot of people are having fun at the same time."

It comes as last year crowds gathered in Santa costumes, reindeer antlers and flashing noses to jog their way around the park – with Wolverhampton cycling legend Hugh Porter cheering them on from the sidelines.

The charity will now gear up for its Forget Me Not Tree Appeal on December 13.

A special tree will feature at the Beacon Centre, on Wolverhampton Road East, and will be decorated with lights in memory of loved ones.

The service will be held at 6.30pm where hymns, words and poetry from different faiths will be heard.

For more information about the charity or to donate visit www.beaconvision.org or call 01902 880111