Hundreds of Santas took part in a 5K run along Aberdeen beach boulevard yesterday.
The event brought a last-minute chance to boost their fitness for delivering presents on Christmas eve – and an opportunity to raise money for a good cause.
More than 400 red-coated runners of all ages made the trip from Lapland to Pittodrie to support Wildhearts, a charity that supports people in developing countries around the world.
After 15 minutes of jumping jacks, stretches and other exercises to warm up, the Santas all took off from the starting line outside the Aberdeen Football Club stadium and – without the aid of reindeers – raced for just over three miles.
Father and son team Ross and Finlay Howorth were just two of the participants taking on the annual festive challenge.
Mr Howorth, 41, said: “It’s amazing, I’ve never seen so many Santas in one place, it’s incredible.
“I’m from Africa originally, so we do a lot of fundraising and other bits and pieces for Wildhearts.
“I’ve directly seen the impact that Wildhearts has in Africa, helping people help themselves out of poverty, so it’s an absolutely fantastic cause to raise money for.”
Nine-year-old Finlay said he was thrilled to be a part of the spectacle.
“I expected there to be a lot less Santas, so I’m impressed that there are so many,” he said.
Kris Bryson of Wildhearts was the drill instructor and gave the countdown for the race.
He said: “Everyone was in great spirits, the sun came out for us as well which is just fantastic, especially for this time of year.
“Everyone was really in the festive spirit, we’ve had people of all ages and some people even dressed up their dogs to get involved as well, you can’t help but smile being a part of it.
“This is actually our biggest year yet, we’re exceeding 400 Santas so it’s fantastic that the event has just grown and grown.”
He said he had been working with Wildhearts since leaving university and the Santa run was very close to his heart.
“All the proceeds go to great causes all over the world, and it’s fantastic that everyone has really got behind it.”