Runners dressed as elves, Santa Claus and Christmas trees gathered at Christchurch Park today for a festive-themed fun run.

Ipswich Star: Ioana Uta took part in the fun run with her two daughters straight after her night shift.Ioana Uta took part in the fun run with her two daughters straight after her night shift. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

Over 70 runners signed up for the event which was organised in aid of East Anglia's Children's Hospices and has already raised over £1,000.

Ipswich Star: Fun run organiser, Dorina Petroi, 33 said she was 'shocked' that they had managed to raise over £1,000.Fun run organiser, Dorina Petroi, 33 said she was 'shocked' that they had managed to raise over £1,000. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

Organiser Dorina Petroi, 33, is the director of Fitness Formula, a health and fitness business which offers group exercise classes for adults and children, personal training and online coaching.

Ipswich Star: The fun run warm-up took place outside Christchurch Mansion.The fun run warm-up took place outside Christchurch Mansion. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

She gathered members of the Ipswich Pure Gym and TruGym, alongside family and friends, to take part in the event.

Ipswich Star: Over 70 people signed up to take part in the fun run.Over 70 people signed up to take part in the fun run. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

“I always like to raise money for children and young people at this time of year,” said Ms Petroi.

Ipswich Star: Children and adults alike gathered to take part in the charity fun run.Children and adults alike gathered to take part in the charity fun run. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

“They’re the ones who are most excited for Christmas, so they deserve the most support.”

Ipswich Star: The runners gathered outside Christchurch Mansion on Saturday morning.The runners gathered outside Christchurch Mansion on Saturday morning. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

Ms Petroi added that she was “shocked, impressed and surprised” that they had managed to raise so much money and hopes people will continue to give generously until the fundraiser closes on Monday.

Ipswich Star: Jon Chatty finished the run wearing his inflatable Santa suit and was awarded with a chocolate prize and a medal.Jon Chatty finished the run wearing his inflatable Santa suit and was awarded with a chocolate prize and a medal. (Image: Dorina Petroi)