IT MAY be approaching the height of summer but there was a very festive feel to a north Hampshire charity’s latest fundraising event.

Around 70 people took part in the Santa Sun Run, at Down Grange Sports Complex, last Sunday, in which participants dressed up as Father Christmas to run 5km.

The event was part of Sebastian’s Action Trust’s Christmas in July campaign.

Caroline Holton, chief development officer for the trust, which runs respite home The Bluebells, in North Waltham, said: “The Christmas in July campaign is something we run every year and the aim is to encourage businesses and community groups and schools to hold their own Christmas-themed events in aid of the trust.

“But there’s a serious message behind it because some of our children and families won’t be able to celebrate Christmas in 2014, either because they have died or aren’t well enough.”

Along with the 45 runners who completed the 5km course, around 25 participants, who are supported by Sebastian’s Action Trust, took part in a Miracle Mile – completing just one lap of the course.

Mrs Holton said: “It’s a massive achievement for a lot of the children because they have life-limiting conditions.”

There were also several teams taking part in the run, including one from Sun Life Financial of Canada, based in Basing View, which agreed to match-fund any money raised by employers.

It is hoped that the event will raise £2,500 for the charity, which will be used to continue supporting seriously-ill children and their families.

Sebastian’s Action Trust is holding a LEGO-themed fete on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm, at The Bluebells, in Popham Lane, at which a replica of the holiday home will be built out of LEGO.

Entertainment will also include a tombola, mini golf, a LEGO treasure hunt and choir.