What an elf-tastic event!

Mental Elf was our first ever running event and we were one of a handful of local Minds chosen by national Mind to pilot the 5k run/walk. Our community rose to the challenge and really embraced our fundraiser, braving the wet weather and a rather muddy registration site at Beach House Gardens to turn out in full force.

Local running groups, families, teams of friends and colleagues, seasoned runners, West Sussex Mind service users (including from our Shoreham and Worthing running groups) and walkers came together to take on the 5k challenge - and turned up in all their festive finery with a whole host of elf outfits, tights, hats and leggings on display!

Worthing Mayor Councillor Henna Chowdhury officially opened the event, followed by a fabulous warm-up from local gym Intent 91, which got everyone in the festive mood. Shortly afterwards, Worthing town crier and West Sussex Mind trustee, Bob Smytherman, counted down the runners on his loud hailer to start the race - with walkers, buggies and wheelchair users following shortly behind.

The first runner came through the finish line in less than 18 minutes to tumultuous applause and there was great support all along the route and at the finish line as runners and walkers came through. It was truly wonderful to see runners and walkers of all ages and abilities take part to raise funds for our charity.

People collected their medals at the finish line, wholeheartedly embraced our Mental Elf selfie board for photo opportunities and then headed off home, many for a well deserved rest and meal no doubt.

Congratulations and well done to everyone who took part in the event. And enormous thanks to all those who organised Mental Elf, volunteered to help on the day, contributed items to our goodie bag, ran a warm-up or in some other way helped to make it a success.

Thanks too to main sponsor, Aspire Residential, for supporting our event and to Will Power Worthing for their eye-catching start and finish lines. But most importantly, thanks to our community. We couldn't have done it without you!