SHOPPERS received a surprise yesterday when 15 Santas chased a giant turkey around a town.

The employees from Middlesbrough Council dressed as St Nick to promote Teesside Hospice’s first ever Santa Run.

The run will take place on Sunday, December 6 around Centre Square in Middlesbrough.

Jane O’Bryne Fundraising Manager at Teesside Hospice said: “The launch for Teesside Hospice's first Santa Run went brilliantly.

“We are really pleased to be working with Middlesbrough Council and the Santa Run is already proving very popular with local people.

“We are hoping to attract up to 300 people and we are anticipating a high response because of the level of interest we have already received.

“The Santa Run is going to be a real community event, with anyone 11 or over being able to enter.

“There's also going to be a sack full of family fun for non runners."

“There will be a warm up before hand which will include Santa style exercises, including jumping of the sledge, climbing down the chimney and sack throwing.”

All participating Santa’s are asked to pay a £10 registration fee which entitles them to a Santa suit, mince pie, hot drink and the chance to raise sponsorship for Teesside Hospice.

If you fancy getting into the spirit and posing as Santa for this festive fun run you can register by logging on to www.teessidehospice.org.