Leeds was swept up in festive spirit on Sunday (7 December) as thousands of runners dressed as Santa filled the city streets for Run For All’s inaugural Leeds Santa Dash. What began as a seasonal fun run quickly became a more poignant moment as the event formed the final leg of Kevin Sinfield’s 7in7: Together Challenge.

The dash began at Leeds Beckett University, where Motor Neurone Disease campaigner and rugby league icon Kevin Sinfield set the runners on their way. Just moments later, he began his own symbolic finish to the challenge, completing his Extra Mile on the university’s campus track to the cheers of supporters, families and those affected by MND who had gathered to witness the moment.

With the city buzzing and the Santa Dash in full flow, Sinfield then joined the crowd of red-suited runners and made the final journey toward AMT Headingley Stadium. The stadium served as the emotional endpoint to his seventh and final day of running, marking the completion of another extraordinary fundraising effort.

The event was a fitting conclusion to a week that once again highlighted the strength behind the campaign. Money raised through the 7in7: Together Challenge will continue to support essential MND charities and research, helping drive progress toward improved treatment, care and ultimately a cure.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Run For All website.

Image: Run For All