Over 900 Santas run for YMCA East Surrey in Priory Park Reigate

Reigate’s green Priory Park turned red and white this Sunday (14th December 2025) with 900 Santas running in support of YMCA East Surrey charity’s Life Change fund. Monies raised help young people build resilience and confidence in overcoming life’s challenges.

The annual Santa Run involved local Surrey residents aged from just eight weeks old to over 80, with several children carried in baby slings, prams or pushchairs.

Two races took place, each launched by Councillor Rich Michalowski, Mayor for the Borough of Reigate & Banstead and his wife, Mayoress Mrs Michelle Gibney. In the 3-mile run for over 16s, Harry Mullard, George Akerman and Alexander Williams were the first men over the finishing line. The first three winning women were Jo Vickers, Lydia Riding and Catherine Ryder.

Ella Hilder, aged 17, from Woodfield Post 16, Merstham, ran the course in excellent time. Her mother, Vivienne said, “To run the three-mile race after almost five years in a wheelchair is an amazing achievement. Ella fell ill suddenly in 2020 with functional neurological disorder (FND) and didn’t know what the future held. She’s chosen to fundraise for the YMCA which is an integral part of her social life and wellbeing through its groups Yip4Youth and Waves.” Ella is the top fundraiser for the run, having achieved donations worth £1,250, exceeding her target by 25 per cent.

In the family run of one mile long, the first boys across the line were George Duncton, Henry Man plus Joseph West and the first three girls were Jessica Jupp, Tara Lee and Freya Brown.

Mayor, Councillor Rich Michalowski, said, “It’s wonderful to be here to support all the runners who in turn are supporting the magnificent work of YMCA East Surrey. They really make such a difference to everyone in our community.” Mayoress Michelle Gibney added, “You can see how the event lifts people’s spirits. We saw many smiling faces on our walk down from the Town Hall.”

Ian Burks, CEO of YMCA East Surrey said, “The run has a dual purpose. It’s fun for families and contributes to our local community. I’m so impressed by the number of people supporting this event, which is growing yearly. Taking part helps and when runners like inspirational Ella Hilder raise funds through sponsorship, that’s absolutely superb. Thank you as well to the 40-plus volunteers who make this day possible. The Santa Run also has a serious role. Through the charity’s work we’re supporting those who are struggling during this festive season.”

This year’s event has already raised £2,500 and funds are continuing to flow in. Next year’s Santa Run takes place on Sunday 13th December 2026. In between numerous Challenge events, including a Fun Run and Festival of Sport on Sunday 3rd May 2026.