Mental Elf 5K in Knaresborough Brings Festive Fun and Funds for Mental Health

Sunday 1st December 2024 and Knaresborough was buzzing with festive fun as over 250 runners and walkers turned out at Conyngham Hall for the very first Mental Elf 5K. It was more than just a day for fancy dress and Christmas cheer – it also raised over £7,500 (and counting!) for mental health for children and young people in the Harrogate area.

From speedy sprinters to families in elf hats, it was a day of fun, fitness and community.

Running (and walking) for mental health

This 5K route went through the lovely grounds of Conyngham Hall, so you could enjoy the crisp December air whilst raising money for a good cause. The route followed the parkrun route, so familiar for many of you and with a festive twist.

Before the run Jimi from Coach Gyms got everyone warmed up with a lively warm-up session. His gym also provided goody bags and offered a years free membership to the male and female winners – what an incentive!

And speaking of speedy runners, James Verity (Verity Frearson Estate Agents) was the first male finisher and Gemma Kilbride the first female.

It was more than just a run

While the running was the main event, the day had so much more. The Harrogate Rock Choir sang for the crowd and there was a fancy dress competition. The costumes were colourful and creative – elf outfits, festive frocks and even the pets got in on the act! Tilly the Spaniel, dressed to the nines, was awarded Best Dressed Dog and a gift box from HG Pets.

Local businesses were also involved. Teams from Strive Group, S&SA Architects, McCormicks Solicitors and Harrogate Mumbler made it a great team building day. Nick Hancock from Your Harrogate Radio kept the atmosphere going with festive music and cheer.

The day finished with sustainable wooden medals, sponsored by Verity Frearson Estate Agents. The medals doubled as Christmas tree decorations and were a big hit with the runners.

The Mental Elf 5K impact

All the money raised will go to Mind in Harrogate District to fund services like counselling for 11-18 year olds and creative therapies like Drawing and Talking for younger children. These services make a huge difference for local families struggling with mental health.

Holly from Mind in Harrogate District was delighted. She said:

“We are so chuffed with our first Mental Elf 5K. The community has been amazing... Everyone has been so enthusiastic and generous. We can’t wait for next year!”

A community unites

The event was part of the Mental Elf Fun Runs hosted by Local Mind across the UK. Each Local Mind is independent and focuses on the needs of their local community. This local focus with national support shows how local initiatives can make a difference.

The race was officially started by local MP Tom Gordon who not only cheered on the runners but joined in too.

What’s happening next?

With such a great turnout we are already planning next year’s Mental Elf 5K. Events like this show that getting people together – for fitness, fun or festive fancy dress – can have a lasting impact on our community’s mental health.