CHILDREN from schools across South Lakeland and North Lancashire took part in Elf Runs for St John’s Hospice during December.

The Lancaster-based hospice has organised the runs as part of a school partnership programme to support wellbeing and raise awareness of its work.

More than 40 schools signed up to take part. Participating children sported elf hats and more than 5,000 were sent out.

Schools arranged their Elf Runs in many different places, from school tracks to paths to promenades and playgrounds. Many of the children raised vital sponsorship to support the work of St John’s Hospice.

Rachael Makinson, the hospice's community fundraiser, described the response as "terrific."