Bolton Wanderers first team manager joined not one but 80 Father Christmases to spread some festive cheer.

The club staged its first Santa Dash and those taking part were joined by first team manager Ian Evatt, CEO Neil Hart and Phil Mason the CEO of Bolton Wanderers in the Community, which organised the fundraiser.

And mascot Lofty the Lion also joined in with the festive fun

The group made their way around the perimeter of the UniBol three times, a total distance of one mile.

The Bolton News: Ian Evatt at the Santa DashIan Evatt at the Santa Dash (Image: BWitC)

After the event those taking part were given complimentary match tickets, medals, and selection boxes which were kindly donated by local superstore, Gee Tee’s in Westhoughton.

Christmas then came early for the participants as they were able to cheer on the whites to a 2-0 victory against Exeter City.

Mr Mason said: "It was great to see all those who came to support the Santa Dash on Saturday.

“I want to say a big thank you to all who braved the freezing temperatures to take part and support the work of Bolton Wanderers in the Community and help with the warm spaces initiative in Bolton.

“A special thank you to our first team manager Ian Evatt and CEO Neil Hart for taking part and leading the charge in promoting our work as a club in the community."

The Bolton News: Lofty the Lion starts proceedingsLofty the Lion starts proceedings (Image: BWitC)

The event has been deemed a success by BWitC, having already raised over £1,200.

The money will be invested into BWitC’s warm hubs - local places where the more vulnerable people in the community can visit to keep warm over the winter rather than having to spend money by turning on the heating at home.

One of the hubs is the newly established Sutton Centre in Daubhill - a community hot spot which allows BWitC to reach more people and create a more accessible option for those who struggle to reach the stadium.

There is still the opportunity to donate and add to the money already raised. To do so visit  www.bwitc.org.uk or visit justgiving.com/campaign/bwitcsantadash.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.