(Image: Kim Hollins Photography)
Darlington’s festive 5k will return later this year to raise money for mental health support, with Christmas fun, live entertainment and activities for all the family.
Darlington Mind’s Mental Elf Festive 5k will take place at South Park on Sunday, November 29.
Now in its third year, the event welcomes people of all ages and abilities to walk, jog or run its 5km route in support of mental health services.
Christmas cheer and community spirit will be on show at Darlington Mind’s Mental Elf 5k (Image: Kim Hollins Photography)
Jemma Gregory, marketing and development officer for Darlington Mind, said: "We're really looking forward to bringing everyone together for our third Mental Elf Festive 5k in South Park.
"It's a lovely way to kick off the Christmas festivities, have some fun with friends and family and support a local cause at the same time."
Participants can expect festive music, fancy dress and Christmas cheer.
Festive fun with a purpose as runners, walkers and joggers back Darlington Mind (Image: Kim Hollins Photography)
The Cockerton Prize Silver Band will play along the route and Physique Fitness Club will lead the warm-up.
Yorkshire Rose Events and Kim Hollins Photography will host a festive selfie booth.
Panto characters from Darlington’s Majestic Theatre will also appear.
Families, children and dogs are welcome, while spectators can soak up the atmosphere and cheer on participants.
Fancy dress, live music and festive fundraising are all part of this year’s Mental Elf 5k (Image: Kim Hollins Photography)
Ms Gregory said: "As a local Mind, we rely on our own fundraising to continue delivering services in our community.
"Every entry, donation and offer of support helps us make a difference to local people's mental health."
Darlington Mind will again offer its 'Walk With Us' support scheme to make the event more inclusive and accessible.
Anyone feeling nervous, anxious or overwhelmed can join a small group led by a Darlington Mind team member.
The group offers encouragement and lets participants complete the route at their own pace.
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Money raised will fund Darlington Mind’s work across Darlington, Hambleton, Richmondshire and South Durham.
The charity provides counselling, peer support and community programmes for adults and young people.
Tickets are available at darlingtonmind.com.