Hundreds of Santa's elves raise money for mental health charity

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people in elf costumesImage source, Andy Ford
Image caption,

Runners raised £8,500 for Lancashire Mind which supports people to improve their mental health

A fun run that saw hundreds of Christmas elves race around a course raised £8,500 for a mental health charity, organisers have said.

About 300 people turned out at the annual races - ranging from a 2k run for under-15s to a 10k for adults - in Witton Park, Blackburn.

The sponsorship money will go to charity, Lancashire Mind.

Chief Executive Tommy McIlravey said it would help deliver "essential mental health support" across the county.

He added: "After a difficult few years and ahead of a challenging winter, it is wonderful to see so many people championing positive mental health and supporting Lancashire Mind."

A representative for the charity said it has seen a significant increase in demand for support since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Image source, Andy Ford
Image caption,

Children also took part in the races in Blackburn

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