Hundreds of people decided to run off their Christmas dinner and raise some cash at Hindhead’s Boxing Day Run.

The run in aid of Holy Cross Hospital draws quite a crowd each year, with 538 people completing the 3.5mile cross-country route in the Surrey countryside. The drinking race, where a pint of ale is served part way around the route, was as popular as ever with tickets selling out in record time.

The run is organised by Matt Dellar. 

Speaking after the run, Matt said: “Thank you to all the runners, spectators, volunteers and sponsors who supported the 2023 Boxing Day Run and made it such a lovely, positive occasion. 

“The combination of seasoned athletes running amongst families and groups of friends resulted in an inspiring blend of fitness and festive cheer.”

Frances Campion-Smith, the newly appointed chief executive at Holy Cross Hospital, said: “Within a very short time of taking up my role, I had heard all about the Boxing Day Run and the sterling effort Matt and his small team of organisers put into arranging this annual event. 

“I would like to add my personal thanks to everybody who was involved in the run and confirm that any money raised will go towards helping patients achieve the best possible quality of life.”

First over the finishing line was Christopher Phillips-Hart who completed the men’s run in 20m 35s. The winner of the men’s drinking category was Daniel Titcomb who ran the race in 21m 44s. 

Sarah Hill won the ladies’ drinking run in 26m 42s and Katrina Scott was the first to finish the ladies’ non-drinking run in 27m 18s.

Holy Cross Hospital in Haslemere is a charity that specialises in neuro-rehabilitation for people with complex neurological disabilities.