Mental health charity Lancashire Mind is calling for people from across the county to take part in its annual Mental Elf 5k run.

The event will take place at Witton Park, Blackburn, on Sunday 1st December and registration is now open via the Lancashire Mind website. All funds raised from Mental Elf will help Lancashire Mind to stop misconceptions about mental health, develop resilience in people from an early age and work with communities to build a happier Lancashire.

Mental Elf is in its sixth year and raised over £11,000 in 2018 thanks to 400 participants. This year the charity has made the event bigger than ever and hope to raise their highest fundraising figure yet. The event will see the return of the Festive Market Place: an opportunity for participants, their family and friends to get a warm drink, a festive snack and browse some wonderful stalls selling local products. The market is open 10.30am-2.30pm. There will also be children’s crafts, funfair favourites and plenty of festive refreshments to enjoy.

Lancashire Mind Fundraising Coordinator Fabienne Clough said: “The 5k run is all about getting dressed up in your best Elf outfit, moving and enjoying yourself.

"It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned runner or prefer a stroll in the park, the event is for everyone. Lancashire Mind’s vision is mental wellbeing for all; we want everyone in Lancashire to be aware of and know how to improve their wellbeing.

"Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety. An active lifestyle not only keeps our bodies healthy, but makes us feel good too! By taking part in Mental Elf, people boost their own wellbeing as well as helping other people across Lancashire. We want this year's event to be our most successful yet with people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities coming together to support mental health across Lancashire."

For more information about the event, or to register to take part, visit lancashiremind.org.uk/mental-elf