A brand-new event will put the emphasis on fun, with a festive park run to raise money for an important cause.

This December, Mind in Furness is hosting their first ever Mental Elf, a five-kilometre fun run at Ford Park in Ulverston.

(Image: Mind in Furness) Mind hopes to welcome over a hundred people to their event on Sunday December 15.

The Barrow-based mental health service provides vital support to a number of people in the local community.

It is an important cause to raise money for, as mental health issues affect many individuals and families, often leading to isolation, stigma, and a lack of support.

Last year, Mind supported approximately 1950 clients – a 35% increase on the previous year.

(Image: Mind in Furness) Community and Events Fundraising Manager, Georgia Little said: “The need for our services are growing, and we can only meet this need through our incredible supporters who help us raise the funds to increase our resources.

“Raising money for Mind in Furness will help to ensure that anyone in the area has access to essential services such crisis support, counselling, support groups, and holistic care such as housing and benefits advice.”

Mind hopes to show that fundraising can be fun, engaging and something for the whole community to get involved in.

(Image: Mind in Furness) After registration opens at 10 am, there will be a welcome warm up before the runners set off at 11:15 am.

The event will host of different activities and fancy dress competitions, as well as music from Ulverston Brass band, carol singing, face painting, wellbeing tent activities, a tombola and raffle, prizes for fancy dress, refreshments, and more.

Everyone who finishes the run will be awarded a complimentary finisher pack featuring an exclusive Mental Elf medal.

There are tickets available for individuals, groups, families and even dogs, everyone is able to take part.

(Image: Mind in Furness) Georgia said: “Mental Elf is all about coming together as a community, doing something that’s good for you, whilst giving something back by helping to raise much needed funds.

“Our first Mental Elf is kindly sponsored by Kimberly Clark and Siemens Energy, and we hope it will become an annual event.

“Any amount raised would be incredible, all proceeds will go towards ensuring anyone in the Furness area has access to our services and gets the mental health support they deserve, so every penny is appreciated.”