Visitors to Clapham Common were left doing a double take when it appeared Mary and Joseph were racing to find an inn.
But on closer inspection it emerged the saints were taking part in a Nativity themed run in aid of the Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD).
Participants dressed up as characters from the Christmas story and ran 5k across the common.
Schools, church groups and families took part in the race, with money going towards building a feeding centre in West Africa.
Runners were also treated to a mulled wine and mince pie after the race.
Hannah Patterson, organiser, said: "CAFOD’s Nativity Run is a fun way to bring the focus back to what’s at the heart of the Christmas story.
"It reminds those taking part, watching or supporting that this is a time to think of others as well as a time of joy for all."
Visit cafod.org.uk for more information
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