Elves run through park to raise money for MIND

The sun shone down on the elves in Scunthorpe, which hosted its first Mental Elf 5k

More than 140 people dressed as elves ran through a park in Scunthorpe earlier to raise money for the mental health charity MIND.

It was the first time the Mental Elf 5k Festive Fun Run was held in the town and was hosted in Central Park.

Jurate Klusaite from North Lincolnshire MIND said: "It's a really nice way to remind people that, by running, by exercising, by getting into that cheerful mood, is a good way to take care of your mental health."

The charity's Mental Elf runs take place across England and Wales during November and December.

Jurate Klusaite said exercise outside was good for mental health

Ms Klusaite said: "Mental health is important all times of year, but I think especially in winter, because the weather is getting colder, it's getting darker.

"We really need to take make sure that we do things to take care of our mental health," she explained.

The charity runs one to one counselling and runs groups to help people with anxiety, stress and depression.

Chloe Jaksics said Christmas can be challenging for people

Chloe Jaksics from North Lincolnshire Mind said there is a support group every afternoon and a phone service every evening between 16:00 GMT through to midnight, including over the Christmas period.

"We see a lot of people, especially coming up to this time of the year, coming and using our services, because Christmas can be difficult time for everyone," Ms Jaksics explained.

Patrick McKee said he took part in the run to raise awareness and reduce stigma, particularly for men, who are less likely to seek help.

Runner Dee Macam could not find her elf costume so came as Santa instead.

"I think mental health is not talked about enough, so a lot of people struggle in silence, and I think it just needs to be made more aware to people," she said.

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