Mental Elf 2k and 5k races proved a huge success at Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay, last Sunday.

*Pictured above and below - some of the fun runners at the Mental Elf events.

Mental Elf 2k and 5k races proved a huge success at Eirias Park, Colwy Bay last Sunday...

Report by Don Hale. Pictures by Caitlin Faye Photography.

donhaleblog.blogspot.com/2025

John Hatton, who was one of the charity event organisers at last weekend’s Mental Elf races at Eirias Park, was delighted by the fun frolics and the great public response, plus the generous funds raised for such a worthy cause.

Sponsored by Jennings, participants were told that they could either walk, jog, skip or run whilst soaking up the festive spirit, and whilst supporting Conwy and the Vale of Clwyd Minds, with a Mini Elf 2k fun run, and 5k event.

After the event, John confirmed: “A massive thank you to all the volunteers last Sunday at the Mental Elf 2k & 5k, held at Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay. What a day, and it began at 8am setting up the course. It was white everywhere, and a hailstorm was incredible.

“The weather eventually turned out fine, and both races were later held in brilliant sunshine and when we started the 2k - five times around the track - and then the 5k, also partially around the track before going onto the prom and return, we were in glorious sunshine."

This year, Mind partnered with the National Trust, and it was said that if people took part or volunteered in a local Mental Elf event, they would receive a free family access pass to National Trust sites!

A spokesperson said: "It was our way of thanking people for supporting mental health and reminding you to look after your wellbeing this winter. We only had a limited number of passes however, available on a first come, first served basis.”

And they added: “It’s now more important than ever to donate as Mental Health in our communities is in crisis, and Conwy has some of the highest rates of mental health emergencies in Wales. Together, we can stop mental health crisis before it starts!”

*My thanks to Caitlin Faye Photography for such a wonderful selection of pictures... Photograph’s from yesterday’s Mental Elf runs are now available on Caitlin Faye Photography Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/caitlinfayephotgraphy