Getting active does great things for our mental health, so by taking on a challenge in aid of Solent Mind, you too will feel the benefits! Find out more
Gina Lloyd-Newell, from Totton, took on the ABP Southampton 10k in April 2025 to raise money for Solent Mind, and has now signed up to the half marathon course at this year’s event.
Gina Lloyd-Newell, from Totton, took on the ABP Southampton 10k in April 2025 to raise money for Solent Mind, and has now signed up to the half marathon course at this year’s event.
Talking about her fundraising challenges, the 29-year-old explained how running has helped with her mental wellbeing and why ‘giving back’ to Solent Mind is important for her.
Gina said: “When I was 17, I suffered with chronic depression and found daily life overwhelming. I had support from Solent Mind’s Mayfield Garden Centre at the time, which really helped. To have the opportunity to give back, means so much to me.”
As a teenager, Gina also battled with self-harm, often feeling isolated. Visiting Mayfield with a family friend became a real turning point.
“Mayfield is a beautiful place, and I remember it fondly. I spent time away from my thoughts, painting signs for the plants in the charity’s nursery. I wasn’t judged there, and meeting others who were struggling too helped me feel less alone.”
Sign up to run in the ABP Southampton Festival 2026Although Gina still deals with anxiety daily, running has become an important coping tool.
“Running is one of the best things I can do for my mental health. It clears my head and stops me overthinking.
"Taking on the ABP Southampton 10k last year was the first running event I’d taken part in and it was a fantastic experience.”
“Being part of the 10k event last year was so much fun, and I was looked after by the team from Solent Mind exceptionally well, both before and after race day.
“I didn’t get around as quickly as I wanted, but the atmosphere was impeccable, and knowing I was raising money for mental health spurred me on.
“I quickly decided that I wanted to continue running in aid of Solent Mind, and I’ve now signed up to do the ABP Southampton half marathon on behalf of the charity.
“I am prioritising nutrition and training hard so I can get a half marathon time I’m proud of in May.”
Gina raised more than £400 for Solent Mind in 2025 and is fundraising again ahead of her 2026 running challenge.
The ABP Southampton Festival will take place on Sunday 3 May. Runners can choose to sign up to the marathon, half marathon, 10k or 5k.
Has Gina’s story inspired you to take on a challenge for Solent Mind? Sign up to the marathon now and choose your distance from 5K, 10K, a half marathon or a full marathon.
Getting active does great things for our mental health, so by taking on a challenge in aid of Solent Mind, you too will feel the benefits! Find out more
