Santas dash for Mencap

Monday 29 November 2010

Soap stars join festive runners at The Co-operative Santa Dash in aid of Mencap

Hundreds of runners braved the icy conditions in London and Manchester to take part in The Co-operative Santa Dash on Sunday 28 November. 

The two 5km events saw participants of all ages dress up as Father Christmas and run, walk and dance round the courses. Together, they raised nearly £40,000 for Mencap – The Co-operative Group's Charity of the year.

Among the runners at London's first ever Santa Dash in Crystal Palace Park was was south London actress Kellie Shirley (pictured above). She is best known for her role as Carly Wicks in 'EastEnders' and Kym in 'The Office' Christmas specials. In Manchester's Platt Fields Park, 'Coronation Street' star Ryan Thomas (pictured below) was at the front of the pack of Santas for the second annual Santa Dash in the city.

"There was a fantastic atmosphere on the day and I was proud to be involved in such a fun-filled event that is raising money for a worthy cause, such as Mencap," said Ryan Thomas. "It was a great success and a tremendous way for The Co-operative to get its fundraising for its 2011 Charity of the Year off and running!"

Kellie Shirley added: "It's so great that so many people entered into the Christmas spirit and came to Crystal Palace to support such a worthwhile cause."

The Co-operative is raising money for Mencap in 2011 to help transform the lives of up to 20,000 young people with a learning disability across the UK. Through the Inspire Me project, it aims to change their world for the better by helping them to gain new skills and the confidence to play a more active part in their communities.

Top photo: Amy Edge

Find out more about Mencap's work with The Co-operative