Lancashire Mind’s elf-themed fun run has a new ho-ho-home for 2024!

Lace up your running shoes and get your best elf costume ready because Lancashire Mind’s Mental Elf Fun Run is coming to Leyland’s Worden Park.

Taking place on Saturday 30th November, eager elves can get their hands on discounted tickets today for the much-loved event which attracted 300 adults and children in fancy dress in 2023.

Organised by mental health charity Lancashire Mind, and now in its 11th year, the event promises a day of festive family fun, community spirit and, most importantly, making a stand for mental health across our local communities.

The concept of the Mental Elf Fun Run was created by Lancashire Mind, and as the event enters its second decade, 42 other local Mind charities across the country will be hosting a similar event in 2024 having seen the success of the Lancashire event.

A Day of Festive Fun and Community Involvement

Participants of all ages are invited to join in the 2k, 5k or Challenge Your S’Elf distances, all whilst dressed as festive elves, helping to spread some early Christmas cheer along with raising vital funds for mental health. Participants will each receive a wooden medal, which doubles as a Christmas tree decoration.

In addition to the run, there will be a variety of activities for families to enjoy including face painting and craft stations, elf relay races and obstacle courses, live music and dance performances, and festive boosts along the route.

Impact on Mental Health

All proceeds from the Mental Elf Fun Run go directly to supporting Lancashire Mind’s life-changing mental health services. These funds help provide wellbeing coaching, support groups, and educational programmes to individuals and families in need of mental health support in our community.

Nicola Tomkins, Community and Events Fundraiser at Lancashire Mind, said: “The Mental Elf Fun Run is more than just a run – it’s a celebration of mental health awareness and community support. It makes a real difference in the lives of those who struggle with their mental health. Every step taken and every donation made helps us continue our essential work in the local community.

“After several successful years at Witton Park in Blackburn, the elves will have a new route to explore around Leyland’s Worden Park this year. Our previous feedback tells us that most of our participants come from central Lancashire postcodes so we’re hoping this will be the biggest Mental Elf yet!”

Corporate support

The event is being backed by several organisations, led by Preston-based SPAR wholesaler James Hall & Co. Ltd as the headline sponsor once again.

Philippa Harrington, Marketing Manager at James Hall & Co. Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be headline sponsor of Lancashire Mind’s Mental Elf Fun Run.

“It is a fantastic community event that brings Lancashire Mind’s work to life. While dressed up as a fun day out for all the family in the run up to Christmas, it gets people active and socialising and raises hugely important funds that support better mental health for people who live and work in Lancashire.”

Pre-Event Engagement

An Elf Hunt is planned in Leyland in November to engage local schools, shops, and businesses ahead of the event.

Mental Elf is also going into schools for the first time with schools being encouraged to set up events in December. Further information and ‘how to’ guides are available for schools to access through: nicolatomkins@lancashiremind.org.uk

How to Get Involved

Eager Elves can access 20% discount on tickets until October 11th 2024. Visit Mental Elf – Lancashire Mind to secure your spot.

Volunteers are also being sought, with more information at Volunteering – Lancashire Mind.

There are also corporate sponsorship opportunities available, and businesses can find out more by contacting emmabroom@lancashiremind.org.uk for more details.