Santas run for charity in city in northern Netherlands

On the streets of Haarlem, the Netherlands, hundreds of people old and young, male and female, dressed as Santa Claus and took part in the annual Santa run.

The event, now in its fifth year, took place on December 14 and attracts people from all over Holland raising thousands of Euros for two charities.

Competitors have the choice of either the full 6km course or shorter 3km. This year the longer race was won by Martin Reimann in a time of 26.03 mins and the shorter one by "Santa's friends from Hypotheker Haa" in 23.41mins.

After the event the adults traditionally visit local bars while still in costume and celebrate the night away. There is also music and dancing in the Grote Markt where the race starts and finishes.