Santa Dash 2005

More than 4,000 red-clad runners took to the streets of the city for the second santa dash charity run. Organisers are working out the exact number to see if the second annual Liverpool Santa Dash has broken the world record. The rival Newtown event, which is the current record holder, also had 4,000 plus runners for its race. 

Both Dashes seem certain to beat the previous world best of 3,445. Independent experts are counting how many runners took part in Liverpool, after organisers collected every coupon. 

Race Director Alan Rothwell said, "I hope everybody has given their slips in because that's what will make the difference. We're now planning an even bigger event next year. Everyone who saw how much fun it was will want to take part". 

More than 4,500 people had registered to tackle the race, which was started by Blues legend Derek Mountfield in Castle Street. They should raise upto £100,000 for the ECHO Sunrise Fund which is supporting the Marina Dalglish Appeal. 

Marina's husband, Kop idol Kenny Dalglish, said, "It's a great reflection of Merseyside that so many people turned out. Everybody who ran or sponsored someone is a star."

Mossley Hill teacher Bernie Murphy, 39 broke the tape, with a 20 second gap to second place. Among the ECHO's team were editor Alastair Machray, who finished in 42 minutes, and education reporter Jane Woodhead who has already run the London and New York marathons this year. 

SEE IF YOU HAVE BEEN CAPTURED ON FILM - VISIT www.sportcam.net.

A final total of 3,902 santa's were counted in the Blankstone Sington Marquee at the finish. This figure is 457 more than the existing world record of 3,445 - but still 603 short of the total number entered. This means more than 600 people entered and didn't take part - or didn't pass through the marquee at the finish. The figure of 3,902
will be submitted to the Guinness Book of World Record's for scrutiny. 

Visit www.santa-dash.com to find out even more information about the event.