HUNDREDS of youngsters have donned Santa costumes to raise money for a popular hospice.

Durham Johnston School held its annual Santa Run at its campus in Crossgate Moor, Durham City, at lunchtime today (Wednesday, December 17).

Year seven and eight pupils took part, running a cross-country route over the fields in Christmas-themed fancy dress in aid of St Cuthbert’s Hospice.

It is hoped several hundred pounds will have been raised in sponsorship.

The event is held partly in memory of late teachers Danny Swan and John Sinclair, who both received care at the Merryoaks hospice, which provides free day and in-patient support for people with life-limiting illnesses across north Durham.

Last week, a Santa Walk was held at Neville’s Cross Primary School, also in aid of the hospice.

Tomorrow (Thursday, December 18), the Johnston school will hold its annual carol service at Durham Cathedral at 1pm.

The school was recently named the best state secondary in the region in The Sunday Times' Parent Power guide after 40 per cent of its GCSE results were returned at A* or A and 73 per cent of its A-level grades came out at A*, A or B.