THOUSANDS descended on the streets of Glasgow yesterday to take part of this year’s Santa Dash.

A record number of participants took part in the event to raise money for Beatson Cancer Charity.

It is estimated that a total of 8,500 people donned their best Santa suit for the 5k run and raised around £50,000 on the day.

Since the inaugural race in 2006 the Glasgow Santa Dash has now raised more than £250,000 for various charities.

Glasgow’s Lord Provost Eva Bolander kicked off the 2017 run in George Square at 10am with the runners following a route through the city centre.

In temperatures which dropped as low as -6C at times, the runners then headed back to the finish line in George Square.

Ms Bolander said: “Seeing thousands of Santas running through the streets of Glasgow is spectacular and unforgettable.

“That so many take the time to come and support charities as we head towards Christmas shows just how generous Glasgow is.

“I hope everyone who ran the race and came along, and particularly all the volunteers, had a wonderful time.”

Maisie Hamilton, Beatson Cancer Charity’s community fundraising manager, added: “Beatson Cancer Charity is delighted and overwhelmed at the number of people that signed up to this year’s Santa Dash.

“It was such a fantastic sight in an incredible city.

“Thank you so much to you all, we hope you had a great time.”