On a wet, cold early Sunday morning the week before Christmas, 200 children dressed as Santa took over Ammanford Park for the annual Ammanford Kids Santa Race for the second year running.

The event was organised by Polly Powell owner of Race Arches Uk, based in Cross Hands.

Local marathon hero Josh Griffiths, who was the first Brit to finish the London Marathon this year in a time of 2hrs 14mins, was there to lead all the children out at the start of the race which was a 1.3k course, which began at Ammanford Park, down Tirydail Lane, around and back down Talbot Road back into the park.

The race is aimed at children up to the age of 11 and they were allowed to run, walk or scooter.

Polly told Josh not to go too fast, but there were some fast little runners out on the course.

Afterwards Josh helped out by giving all the children their finishers medals.

Goody bags were provided by local businesses and there were plenty of raffle prizes donated by the business community across the county.

There was also special appearances from five pups from Paw Patrol, which all the children had photographs with.

Due to the success of last year’s race, organiser Polly decided to increase the amount of places available for the children.

Polly said “I was so happy with the turnout at this year’s race, especially as the weather was not on our side.

“Everyone looked like they were enjoying themselves and the children’s faces were priceless as they crossed the finish line.

“Well done to everyone who took part.”

The event raised £1364, which is all being donated to Ammanford Town Council to help purchase defibrillators to go throughout the town.