ALMOST 30 Farnham Runners took part in the club’s traditional mince pie run – or Christmas carol run as it is otherwise known.

Started in 1994, or possibly earlier, the event has been become an annual favourite with the runners.

Replacing the usual Wednesday run, originally the group, in Christmas fancy dress, ran between six members’ homes where they sang carols and were rewarded with mince pies and glasses of mulled wine. But with today’s increased numbers there are no longer homes big enough!

So the event has evolved and this year it began in Central car park with a glass of mulled wine and the London marathon club ballot. The club is awarded two marathon places. This year, two men and two ladies had completed 12 of the club’s Grand Prix events. The names pulled out of the hat were Anne Snelson and Ali Hardaway, both delighted to gain a club place but well aware of the rigorous training that will be needed ahead of the April spectacle.

Clair Bailey, Farnham Runners’ social secretary and event organiser, said: “We then set off to the Shepherd and Flock for mulled wine, mince pies and some Christmas carol singing. We left the pub to jog to the Bourne Wood Manor Care Home at the other end of Farnham town where we sang Christmas carols to some of the residents and staff. We sang some requests and a number joined us in the singing.

“After around 20 minutes we again enjoyed mulled wine, mince pies and sausage rolls with the residents and staff, all kindly donated to Farnham Runnners by Sainsbury’s Water Lane. After leaving the nursing home, our last stop was at The Wheatsheaf pub!”