COCHRANE— Cochrane Fire Services’ Christmas Eve Fun Run has been cancelled this year.
One of the most anticipated events of the year among residents, the Fun Run featured Santa Claus atop a parade of fire trucks that made its way throughout the community.
“It’s very unfortunate,” said fire inspector Jeff Avery. “This was always one of our better events throughout the year. It had a lot of volunteers, and of course, bringing Santa through the streets of Cochrane is always a huge event for the town, but it was decided that with the new public health orders in the province, this event did contravene the current orders. It wasn’t an easy decision, but as a fire department, of course, he have to put the safety of all residents of Cochrane first and foremost.”
Members of Cochrane Fire Services, Avery said, were disappointed by the news.
“This has been a long running event, and we do get a lot of support for this event, and of course, thousands and thousands of Cochranites watch the event, so definitely a lot of sadness on this one,” he said.
Avery was quick to point out the cancellation of Santa’s tour around town does not mean that he will not be visiting the homes of all Cochrane residents, delivering their presents.
“This doesn’t mean Santa’s not coming to town. He’ll definitely be here on Christmas Eve, but unfortunately he won’t be able to tour around Cochrane on a firetruck before he gets to work, but he will be here,” Avery said.
Cochrane Fire Services has already discussed with Santa a plan to do the Fun Run next year, and they are ready to craft an event that is bigger and better than ever.
“We’re going to plan something. We haven’t quite decided what we’re going to do, but we’re going to make up for this one. We’ll make sure that next year is one of the better ones that we’ve ever done,” Avery said.
