The Great Lutterworth Santa Fun Run has become one of the major events in the Lutterworth Calendar. Unfortunately, as a result of the Covid pandemic, we were unable to hold the event during 2020, but were back on November 28th for the 2021 event. Unfortunately, numbers were down, probably due to uncertainties over Covid guidelines, but this did not stop everyone enjoying the day in a carnival atmosphere. However, the decline in numbers over recent years combined with an increase in costs has meant that for this year (2022), the event has become unviable. To make the event viable, we would need to see a significant increase in the number of participants, and would also need to increase the entry fee, and this was not seen as a realistic prospect during a cost-of-living crisis. Over the years the event has been run, in excess of £100,000 has been raised for local and international charities, and so it is with deep regret we have decided to call a halt for the foreseeable future.
What We’re About
The Lutterworth Santa Fun Run is organised by the two Rotary Clubs of Lutterworth, The Lutterworth Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Lutterworth Wycliffe, and over the nine years this event has been running, a staggering £109,000 has been raised for local and international charities.
The 2021 Santa Fun Run
As there was no Santa Fun Run last year (2020 – the last run was held in 2019) it was great to return for the 2021 event on 28th November with over 300 Santas taking part, running, walking or ambling round one of the two courses in aid of their chosen charity. Numbers were down on previous events, probably due to the uncertainty around the Covid pandemic. However, the organisers (the two Rotary Clubs of Lutterworth) were pleased with the turnout that included many families, some covering three generations and once again, the event was blessed with good weather of bright winter sunshine. There was a real carnival atmosphere with coffee and mince pies being served at the finish – all to the sound of Christmas carols from the Lutterworth Town Band. Both Rotary Clubs would like to thank all those who took part and made the day a very special occasion, our sponsors who support us every year, the marshals who ensure the participants complete the course in safety, the organising committee who devote so much time and effort to ensure the day is a success, and the Lutterworth College for hosting the event. Chairman of the organising committee, Mark Thompson said ‘Once again we are very pleased with how things turned out. Hopefully, we’ll be back again next year with an improved turnout and the problems surrounding Covid fading into memory’