Thousands of Father Christmases have set a new world record in Londonderry in a festive bid to raise money for charity.

Over 13,000 people donned the trademark white beard and red coat to hit the streets of the Northern Ireland city for a rally, setting the record for the largest group of Santa Clauses ever.

The march succeeded in topping the previous effort by Las Vegas to bring the most Santas ever seen in one place at one time.

One participant said: "Not only have we done it, but we've sent a message around the world. This is officially Santa City."

But at the heart of the seasonal fun was an important message, with proceeds of the walk donated to a range of charities including The Foyle Hospice, Macmillan Cancer Support and Children in the Crossfire.

For a city that once stood divided under sectarian strife for centuries, the rally provided the latest sign that the community is seeking common ground.

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