Schoolchildren from across South Cumbria and North Yorkshire have raised more than £20,000 for their local hospice through an 'Elf Run'.

The initiative saw 60 schools and nurseries involved from North Lancashire, the South Lakes and parts of North Yorkshire, with children turning up in elf hats to run and collect sponsorship for St John’s Hospice.

Participants ranged from nursery attendees to Sixth Form students, and schools set their own individual event dates and distances in the run up to Christmas.

The festive themed fundraisers form a part of the hospice's broader Nourish programme aimed at promoting mental and physical wellbeing in children.

Lisa Morgan, Fundraising Manager at St John’s Hospice, said: "We love working with schools every winter for the Elf Run.

"It’s a wonderful opportunity for children of all ages in the community to connect with the work of their local Hospice.

"They love wearing their hats and getting out in the fresh air.

"So far, these fabulous schools have together raised over £20,000 so far and the money is still coming in."

She expressed her gratitude for the significant funds raised and applauded the yearly growth of the fundraiser.

Ms Morgan said: "The funds raised will support hospice services such as the Forget Me Not Centre, which provides pre and post bereavement care to families and children."

She added: "The Elf Run goes from strength to strength every year and it’s all down to the support and enthusiasm of children and schools.

"Thank you to everyone who took part and sponsored these great runners."