ST Thomas' CE Primary School pupils experienced a day as Father Christmas and his elves as they dressed up for a Santa Dash to raise funds for playground redevelopment and the NSPCC.

Around 90 energetic pupils turned out in the festive gear at Stockton Heath's Diamond Jubilee Field, on Parkgate Road.

Money raised from the day is to go towards the redevelopment of the school's playground facilities, with 10 per cent of the funds to go to NSPCC.

The children's charity will be visiting the school in the near future to thank children for their efforts but a date is yet to be confirmed.

"It was a really good day and the children did so well to raise the money," said event organiser Marsha Roberts.

"All of them loved it and it was nice to see their faces at the end when they were given medals for doing the Santa Dash.

"There was quite a lot of planning involved so it was nice to see everyone who turned up to show their support."

It was also a memorable day for those who opted to watch the children in action.

"We had quite a lot of spectators watching - they enjoyed the day and looked as though they all had fun," she added.

Marsha also confirmed the event would take place next Christmas due to the success of this year's fundraising day.

Redevelopment work of the playground will begin next year.