Local Businesses are rallying behind the Mental Elf 5k Fun Run which is heading to Knaresborough in December.
It’s set to take place on Sunday 1st December at Conyngham Hall, offering a fun and festive way to support mental health charity Mind.
Participants, dressed as elves — or any other festive outfits — will run a 5K route which is the same as the Conyngham Hall Parkrun.
The run aims to raise essential funds for Mind in Harrogate District, helping to provide a new mental health service for children and young people.
The charity operates across the district and provides a quality community-based service to those who need support with their mental health and wellbeing.
The Mental Elf concept was created by Lancashire Mind over a decade ago, and this year, more than 50 local Minds will be hosting Mental Elf events across the country.
This is the first time that Mind in Harrogate District have put on this event.
Tom Gordon, the new MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, will be officially starting the race and taking part himself.
And the event has drawn widespread support from local businesses.
Strive Group, the main sponsor, is using the run to kick off a new, long-term partnership with Mind in Harrogate.
Kate Riley, Head of People & Culture at Strive Group, said:
"Strive Group are thrilled to be the main sponsor of the Mental Elf 5K Fun Run, kicking off what we hope will be a lasting partnership with Mind in Harrogate District.
“We’re deeply committed to supporting mental health, both within our business and the wider community.
“This event is the perfect way for us to take that first step and contribute to a cause we’re truly passionate about."
Coach Gyms, sponsors of the goodie bags and leaders of the pre-race warm-up, will be giving away 12-month gym memberships to the fastest finishers.
Manager, Jimi Brown said:
"Coach Gyms is excited to sponsor the Mental Elf 5K Fun Run and lead the group warm-up.
“We believe in the power of exercise for both physical and mental well-being, and this event aligns perfectly with that.
“We’re proud to support an initiative that promotes fitness while raising funds for Mind in Harrogate District."
This is the second time that Coach Gyms has supported the mental health charity, after their team completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks for Mind in Harrogate earlier this year.
Medal sponsor Verity Frearson expressed their excitement for the event.
Marketing Manager, Lyndsay Snodgrass said:
"Verity Frearson are always keen to champion local events that bring the community together… especially when there’s a bit of silliness involved!
“The Mental Elf Fun Run is right up our street and we’re really excited to support an event raising important funds for Mind in Harrogate District."
Speaking about the importance of local support, Holly Astbury, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Mind in Harrogate District, said:
"I’m so pleased to be working with local businesses that share our goal of supporting mental health in the community.
“Their involvement is crucial, as we couldn’t run events like this without their support.
“Having partners aligned with our vision makes all the difference in raising the funds needed to continue our work."
In addition to the run, the event will feature live entertainment from the Harrogate Rock Choir, performing festive tunes to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Our own Nick Hancock and Your Harrogate Radio team will host the event.
There will also be prizes for the best dressed elf and the best dressed dog in the ‘Festive Furry Friend’ category, making it a family-friendly day out for everyone.
Participants can sign up individually, in teams, or as families, with group discounts available.
Proceeds from the run will directly support Mind in Harrogate District, providing essential mental health services for local children and young people.
For more information and to register for the Mental Elf 5K Fun Run, visit Mental Elf Fun Run - Harrogate Mind (mindinharrogate.org.uk)
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