A burst of wintry weather couldn’t stop hundreds from lacing up Sunday for the 31st annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel in Essex.

The charity event, co-hosted by Community Living Essex County and Ken Knapp Ford, featured 2- and 5-kilometre routes and drew more than 600 registrants, including 58 children under six years old. Many wore Santa hats, reindeer ears and holiday sweaters.

“It’s very ‘Christmassy’ out here,” said event organizer Janell Violet.

“It started out with rain in the forecast and rain this morning, and the flurries are coming fast and furious, but everyone’s hearts are warm.”

Violet said the unpredictable blustery conditions didn’t dampen the spirit of the day.

“It’s a great accomplishment, given the weather we have,” she said.

“They’re weathering all of the slush a

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