Almost 200 people who took part in a charity Santa Run held a minute silence in tribute to schoolboy Harley Watson who died in a hit and run.

Runners clad in festive Father Christmas suits met outside Geraldine’s Hair Fashion on The Broadway Debden on Sunday, December 8.

Before fundraisers went ‘dashing through the streets’ the town feel silent in memory of Debden Park High School student 12-year-old Harley Watson.

The 12-year-old from Loughton died from a severe head injury after being struck outside the school on Willingale Road on Monday, December 2.

Approximately £8,000 for the West Essex and East Herts hospice – enough to fund more than three days of round-the-clock care for three patients staying on St Clare’s Inpatient Unit.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Pearly Kings and Queens pose with events organiser, Geraldine, who hosts the run starting from her hair salon in Debden

Challenges and events fundraiser at St Clare, Emma Broadbent, said: “We achieved record-breaking numbers at our 2019 Debden 5k Santa Run.

“We can’t thank the local community enough for their support – an amazing effort from everyone who took part.”

She added: “I was also really touching to see the community come together and hold a minute silence for the recent tragic events that have happened in Debden.

“We came together to pay our respects to Harley and the family; it really felt like we all came together to support each other at this difficult time. Thank you so much to everyone for their kindness.”

For more festive events hosted by St Clare Hospice, you can visit their Events page at stclarehospice.org.uk/events

For enquiries, contact St Clare’s Challenges and Events Fundraiser Emma Broadbent on 01279 773754 or email emma.broadbent@stclarehospice.org.uk