More than 130 pairs of feet began running from West Nottinghamshire College as staff and students took part in their annual Santa Fun Run.

Some ran and some walked the 5km to Berry Hill Park and back, to raise money for the Mansfield Cold Weather Shelter – a charity which benefitted so well from the college last Christmas. The money raised will be used to provide much needed support for homeless people who use the service.

The shelter is based at the Mansfield Baptist Church Centre, on Rosemary Street, and provides refuge for people sleeping rough. It is a partnership between the Baptist church, Mansfield District Council, Mansfield BID and Transforming Notts Together.

Another charity which will benefit this year will be UNICEF’s Syrian Blanket Appeal which is providing urgent humanitarian aid to children and families affected by the crisis in Syria.

Santas, elves, Obi Wan Kenobi and a Batman, along with others in Christmas jumpers all set off for the fundraiser which is now in its sixth year.

The 5km fun run, which has become an annual tradition at the college, raised over £850 for the two charities, with cash still coming in.

Trudi Dean, the curriculum manager for computer science, has managed the fun run since it began. She said: “I’m so proud of how each year the students take on the fun run challenge and fundraising. Two charities are benefitting this year and because of the recent Syrian plight we wanted to help the UNICEF Syrian Blanket Appeal as well.

“We’ve supported the Mansfield Cold Weather Shelter for 5 years now and will continue to do so. The first £750 raised will support the shelter with all other money going towards the UNICEF fund.

“Thank you to everyone who took part and took the time to dress up to look the part and grateful thanks to the volunteers, especially the sport development team, who all ensured the route was well-managed and safe.”