The Mental Elf 5K Fun Run held in Knaresborough last weekend has raised more than £7,500 for charity.
The event took place on Sunday (1st December) at Conyngham Hall and has been called a "resounding success."
The event attracted runners and walkers of all ages, dressed as elves and other festive characters, who took on a scenic 5K route.
And thanks to the turnout of over 250 runners, the event has already raised over £7,500, with sponsorship donations still pouring in.
Proceeds will go directly to Mind in Harrogate District, funding essential mental health initiatives for children and young people, including counselling for 11 to 18 year olds and Drawing and Talking interventions for younger children.
Holly Astbury, Lead Organiser from Mind in Harrogate District, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled with the success of our first Mental Elf 5K Fun Run.
"The community has shown incredible support, with participants, volunteers, and sponsors all coming together to make the day truly special.
"The funds raised will go a long way in supporting mental health services for children and young people in the Harrogate District.”
Holly added:
“The enthusiasm and generosity of everyone involved have been heartwarming.
"Corporate teams, families, and individuals all embraced the event, showing that this really is a fantastic way to come together, get active, and make a difference. We’re already looking forward to next year!”
The event followed the same course as the weekly parkrun.
Participants enjoyed a lively warm-up session led by Jimi of Coach Gyms, who also sponsored the goody bags and awarded 12-month memberships to the fastest finishers.
The fastest male finisher of the day was James Verity of Verity Frearson Estate Agents, and the fastest female finisher was Gemma Kilbride.
Nick Hancock of Your Harrogate Radio hosted the event, keeping the crowd entertained with festive tunes.
And the crowd also enjoyed a performance by the Harrogate Rock Choir and a fiercely contested fancy dress competition, with prizes donated by Mother Shipton’s Cave and Rudding Park.
Tom Gordon, local MP, officially started the race and joined participants on the course, demonstrating his commitment to mental health initiatives in the community.
Mind in Harrogate District
The Mental Elf 5K is part of a network of around 50 events hosted by Local Minds across the country.
Each Local Mind is an independent charity, run by local people for local people, making community support like this invaluable.
Mind in Harrogate District would like to thank everyone who took part, volunteered, or sponsored the event, making it such a success.
To learn more about Mind in Harrogate District or to donate, visit Mental Elf Fun Run - Harrogate Mind
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