18
Dec
We love celebrating the incredible efforts of our team, especially when they go above and beyond to make a difference in the community.
This festive season, our very own business development manager, James Carter, is donning his iconic Santa suit one last time for a truly heartwarming mission.
For the fifth and final year, Colne Valley’s famous Running Santa is lighting up the streets—literally! Adorned in fairy lights and full Father Christmas attire, James is on a mission to raise an impressive £20,000 for local food banks, ensuring no family in the area goes hungry this winter.
What began in 2020 as a personal fitness challenge has blossomed into a beloved community tradition. James, a Cowlersley resident, near Huddersfield, and a newbie jogger at the time, started running to stay fit.
To ensure his visibility during nighttime runs, he added festive lights to his attire, which eventually evolved into the full Santa look, complete with seasonal tunes.
James’ daily 10km runs have become a staple of the season, with families lining the streets and drivers honking their support as he passes by. This year, he’s joined by his trusty Big Elf, Simon Hagerty, vice secretary of Linthwaite FC.
Together, they’ve brought festive cheer and hope to countless families, reminding everyone of the true spirit of Christmas.
James said: “I couldn’t believe it when people started waiting outside to see me run. Now it happens every time, and it’s amazing to feel so supported by the community.
“It’s been great to show my children that Christmas isn’t just about receiving gifts but also about giving back to those who need it most, Simon has been an incredible support, and together we’re proud to make a difference.”
Over the years, James’ campaigns have raised remarkable sums:
- 2020: £3,500
- 2021: £2,160
- 2022: £3,100
- 2023: £3,831
This year, James is aiming to raise £8,000, bringing his five-year total to an astonishing £20,000. The funds will directly benefit Colne Valley Help and Storth House CIC, two local food banks dedicated to supporting families in need.
As a father of two and a passionate advocate for community welfare, James is determined to end this chapter of Running Santa on a high note. His rigorous schedule includes running 250km over 25 days in December, finishing with his signature shopping trolley dash on Christmas Eve to collect food donations.
Visit Running Santa on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ColneValleyRunningSanta
You can donate at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/colne-valley-running-santa-2024