SANTAS from running groups all over Gwent braved the rain today for for the Usk 10K fun run.

Around 60 runners took part in the run starting at the Usk castle and going through the surrounding woods. Each runner received a Santa hat and on completing the race a Father Christmas medal.

Running clubs present included Usk Runners, Liswerry Runners and Fairwater Runners. An Usk based business supplying Aloe Vera products sponsored the event to raise money for Usk Church in Wales Primary School.

Laura Jones, organiser and co-owner of Forever, said: "We are raising money for Usk Primary to have a defibrillator. Its very important to save lives -it's the best Christmas present they could have."

Ms Jones is a governor at the primary based on Monmouth Road.

She said: "There isn't a 10K in Usk so we thought what better way to raise money than to have a fun run. Hopefully we could make this an annual event.

"It's been quite a good turnout. Lots of local people and different running groups getting involved."

The family fun run took place earlier in the day with Tom Williams, 14, of Adams Close, winning the 3k run followed by his 12-year-old sibling Freya Williams.

Adrian Bull, mechanical engineer, 36, of Llancayo, said: "I've just recently moved to the area and just joined Usk running club. Its a good way to meet people.

"It's a bit of a giggle. I just want to make it round really - I'm hoping to do it in 45 minutes."

Bev James, 42, of Cwmbran, said: "I'm part of Fairwater running club. It's a good cause - I came down for some fun and hot dogs afterwards."

Local businesses donated prizes for the raffle and there were food stalls at the castle with Christmas music to entertain the runners.

Wyn Davies, of Mynydd Du Running club in Abergavenny, said: "We're a bit mad to be here today. We're approaching 50 so it's a great way to keep fit.

"There's no competition really between us- we just want to finish."