A wonderful range of Christmas jumpers, hats and costumes were on display at the Christmas Thetford Park Run events.

Eastern Daily Press: Thetford Parkrun kicks off the Christmas weekend with their traditional pre turkey run.Byline: Sonya DuncanCopyright: Archant 2016Thetford Parkrun kicks off the Christmas weekend with their traditional pre turkey run.Byline: Sonya DuncanCopyright: Archant 2016 (Image: Archant 2016)

Men, women, children and dogs came out in force for both the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 5km run around Abbey Meadows dressed in their best festive outfits.

Yesterday children crossing the finish line were given a selection box from Santa.

More than 175 people participated yesterday and this morning 94 eager runners took on the challenge with visitors from Middlesborough, Oxford and Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Run co-ordinator Mel Floyd said: 'I just love it. Everyone is in a really good mood. It is a chance for everyone to dress up.

Eastern Daily Press: Thetford Park Run Christmas Day. Picture: Mel FloydThetford Park Run Christmas Day. Picture: Mel Floyd (Image: Archant)

'It's great fun with many families taking part, which is what it is about.'

Shirley Standley took part in both races.

She said: 'It is just brilliant and there is a nice atmosphere. It is such a wonderful community. We are like a second family to each other and everybody encourages every one else.

'The way it has grown over the years is pheromonal. You make such good friends.'

There will be a park run on New Year's day Day at 9am.

For more information visit http://www.parkrun.org.uk/thetford/