This year's Santa Dash is a record-breaking spectacular!

The Santa Dash spectacle is now in its eighth year

A record-breaking Santa Dash turned out to be a true firecracker for Saddleworth Round Table.

Organised by their industrious team, the event, staged on Saturday in Uppermill, raised an amazing £15,000 for worthy causes.

The sun shone above the actual sell-out dash, where 1,500 Santas did their bit, kick-starting the Christmas spirit around roads and lanes on a 2k or 5k dash around the community. 

The spectacle - now in its eighth year - wowed as the the village High Street was thronged with a tidal wave of runners and Event Lead, Ed Burbidge, said: “We’d like to thank everyone involved in what turned out to be an incredible event. 

“From runners, to marshals, to the wider public themselves - all of you played your part in making the event so special - your contributions will continue to support all the organisations that make Saddleworth a special place to live, as well as improving the lives of those less fortunate in the Oldham área.”

The Santa Dash is the highlight of the Christmas calendar and began life as a prelude to the Christmas lights switch on, which took place later on in the evening - led by the fantastic Friezland Brass Band and Santa Claus - followed by a fantastic firework show (see below).

The incredible event forms part of Table's annual fundraising efforts that helps people across the borough.

John Arthurs, Saddleworth Round Table Chairman, added: “This year our events have improved the lives of countless individuals: whether it be supporting local people with disabilities to access the care they need, helping collect donations for the foodbank, or providing music for brass bands, we’ve been there and will be there for the people of Saddleworth."

Saddleworth Round Table operate year round, with a few events in the pipeline, the first their “Barrels of Laughs” comedy night on January 20. 

Tickets start from £15, with food and comedy priced at £20. 

Tickets are available through reception at the White Hart Inn - Lydgate.

Anybody involved with local organisations or individuals in need of support are encouraged to contact Saddleworth Round Table through their website, or by using Facebook and Twitter.

Saddleworth Round Table would like to thank everyone involved in the event - particularly the Event Team at Oldham Council, who are always so helpful and supportive.

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