IT WAS fun with jingle bells on.
That’s the verdict from organisers of a school fundraiser held on Sunday.
The grounds of Emmbrook infant and junior schools were de-iced in time for the Jingle Bell Jog.
Freezing temperatures may have meant the earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone, but that didn’t stop those taking part from enjoying the two-mile course.
Doors opened at 10am, and people could enjoy a range of events as well as the run. They included a story time with Santa, an arts and craft stall, and a chocolate and confectionary tombola.
To help people warm up, hot dogs, hot chocolate, mulled wine and other seasonal refreshments were served.
And for pupils, parents could take advantage of a second hand unform stall.
Christine Leddy, from the PTA, said around 250 runners took part in the event.
“People enjoyed dressing up,” she said. “There was a prize for the best fancy dress, which was won by a man with a turkey hat on, a man wearing an Elf dress, and a family wearing Oodies.” (A kind of poncho-like hooded blanket – editor).
She said that while the fastest runners ran the course in around the same times as last year, others taking part might have been spurred on by the cold weather.
“The rest of the pack were definitely finishing faster than last year,” she added.
And the event was judged to be a success.
Ms Leddy said: “I enjoyed the Christmassy festive feel of a community event. There was a great turn out with lots of festive costumes, despite the cold weather and everyone was in good spirits.
“Story time with Santa was a big hit in the school reading shed/grotto, and it was lovely to see so many children, including my own, sitting still and enjoying the story and chat with Father Christmas.
“I also enjoyed a mulled wine and a piece of cake.”
The event saw the two schools, which share the same entrance off Emmbrook Road, come together.
“It was lovely to see lots of staff from the Junior school and Infant school coming along and helping out on the stalls, leasing the warm-up and even taking part in the Jog,” Ms Leddy explained.
“It means a lot to have the support of the schools, as after all the fundraising efforts of the PTA ultimately benefit the children within the school.”
The final fundraising total is yet to be confirmed.
