More than a thousand people kitted out in red Santa suits trimmed with white fur and pointed hats ran through the streets of the small town of Michendorf near Berlin on Sunday in an annual Christmas-themed event.

Around 1,100 adults and children, some wearing long white beards, braved the cold to take part in races that ranged from 1 to 10 km in length.

Benedikt Statt, who won the 10 km men's race, said: "It's a really good feeling — a good course, good atmosphere and perfect weather. It was fun!"