Hundreds of 'Elves' laced up their running shoes for Lancashire Mind’s annual fundraising event, Mental Elf. 

Teams raised more than £8,500 for the independent mental health charity and also aimed to raise awareness of wellbeing services across the county.

Three hundred people took part in the event at Witton Park in Blackburn.

Supporters took part in three Mental Elf fun runs including a mini 2K for children under 15 years, a 5k and 10k.

They were accompanied by a live samba band, salsa music, free arts and crafts activities, storytelling and face painting.

Tommy McIlravey, chief executive of Lancashire Mind, said: “Mental Elf is a fantastic opportunity for families, friends and colleagues to have fun together whilst raising awareness for a very important issue – the importance of looking our own, after each other’s, wellbeing and mental health.

“After a difficult few years and ahead of a challenging winter, it is wonderful to see so many people championing positive mental health and supporting Lancashire Mind. 

"Every penny we raise stays within our county boundaries and helps to deliver essential mental health support such as resilience workshops for young people, tailored workplace wellbeing training, employment and housing services and financial wellbeing support.”

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Lancashire Mind has seen a significant increase in demand for support since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

As an independent charity, support from corporate partnerships and fundraising events are essential and with one in four people now experiencing poor mental health, every penny counts.

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Tommy added: “More than ever, mental health really does matter. We want people to know that they are not alone and that is it important to discuss wellbeing and mental health openly at home, with friends and at work.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has made today possible including our generous sponsors SPAR wholesaler, James Hall & Co, Pierce Business Advisory & Accountancy Group, Essential Industrial Services Ltd, Webbox, and Concert Homes – our amazing volunteers and dedicated runners.”