HUNDREDS of Santas suited up across Hampshire for a weekend of fun runs.

While the Warrior Santa Dash set to take place in Southampton yesterday had to be cancelled due to heavy downpours in the city, several others went ahead as planned.

In Eastleigh, the community came together to race in a bid to raise money in memory of Sophie Barringer, pictured right, who died of cancer aged six just days before Christmas in 2004.

The Norwood Primary School pupil was diagnosed with Wilm’s Disease in September 2003 and had to have major surgery to remove cancerous growths from her heart, liver and right kidney.

After Sophie lost her battle with cancer, her parents Lin and Mike Barringer set up the Sophie Barringer Trust Sophie’s Appeal to keep her memory alive and support ill children.

Money raised from the run, which started and finished at the 3D Health and Fitness club in Chandler’s Ford, will be used to support children at hospitals in Southampton and Winchester.

Meanwhile other Santa fun runs were held in Lymington and Totton, attracting hundreds of participants.

Totton’s event, which follows the success of last year’s inaugural run, also included a Christmas fayre on the finish line in the War Memorial car park, to boost the funds of organisers the 5th New Forest North Testwood Scout Group.

The group needs to update its Garland Lodge home which has barely been touched since it was built in 1978.

Lymington’s Santa dash was in aid of Oakhaven Hospice, based in the town.

But those wanting to take part in the Warrior Santa Dash assault course fun run at Southampton Sports Centre were left disappointed, with organisers forced to abandon their plans.