Christmas comes to Sunderland as hundreds take part in Reindeer Dash through the Bridges

Families took part in the 1k indoor fun run at the Bridges shopping centre in Sunderland on Sunday, December 8.

Taking place for the second time, the event fundraises for the Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC’s charitable organisation, and Red Sky Ball, which supports children with heart problems across the region

Sharon Appleby, head of business operations at Sunderland BID, said: “It gets people into the Christmas spirit and it’s fun for the children, and raises money for charity.

“We’re really delighted at how many people have come to take part.”

Every runner who took part got a medal, awarded by two of the stars of this year’s Sunderland Empire pantomime – Cinderella and Prince Charming.

‘A great day out’

We spoke to lots of you down at the centre on Sunday.

Catherine Casey, who took part with her nephew Harrison said: “It was good, and it’s a great way to get people down to the city centre.

“We came down so Harrison could enjoy it and get in the Christmas spirit – we like to do stuff like this at Christmas.”

Shelly Brown, who raced with her children Emma and Elizabeth, said: “I think there should be more events like this and I’d be happy to pay, it’s a great way to get people into the city centre as well.”

Her partner Andrew Nicholson added: “It was good, and it was a lot of fun for the whole family.”

Rachel Rocks, who was there with son Sonny, said: “It’s good and it’s something to do with the children, it was my first year and I will come back at do it again next year.”

Victoria Blacklock added: “I did it last year, it’s really good and it’s one of those things that can become a tradition and people of all ages and abilities can take part.

“It a good way to get people into the city centre and it would be good if there were events on like this for the children all year round, it’s nice to see everyone get involved.”