HUNDREDS of eager runners donned their foam antlers and trainers to help support the RNLI on Sunday.

The charity's annual Reindeer Run took place at Moors Valley Country Park, with three separate distances for runners of differing abilities and ages.

There was a 5k route, which kicked off first, followed by the 10k where fundraisers were joined by several lifeboat crew members and RNLI mascot Stormy Stan. For youngsters, a 1k Santa Saunter provided an opportunity to get involved.

Organiser Alison Murphy, a supporter care manager for the charity, said the event had been running three years in its latest incarnation and was growing into a valuable fundraiser.

"There has been a lot to do but it is worth it to get a great fun event like this," she said.

"I want to say a big thank you to all the volunteers, we couldn't do it without them. A lot of our staff are volunteering here today as well."

She said 400 racers were taking part, "slightly down on last year" due to a large number of other runs taking place on the day.

"Normally there is also the RNLI Christmas Fair at the college but that is next Sunday now, and we have been fortunate with the weather, last year was so windy we nearly lost the gazebo," she said.

"This is all about community spirit, and getting our safety message out there."

Among the runners were Bex Kemp, 34, from Verwood, and Alex Bancroft, 28, from Knowle.

"I only live round the corner and have done the 5k here before," said Ms Kemp.

"It is much better organised now than it was a couple of years ago, when they ran out of antlers.

"It is a great place to run."

Mr Bancroft said he had been persuaded to take part in the 10k by Ms Kemp after she had completed the Race for Life.

Before the race he said: "It doesn't seem like such a good idea at the moment. Ask me at the end."